Canada, one of the most resource-rich countries in the world, was a leader in mineral exploration and mining, producing more than 60 minerals and metals domestically and operating in 100 countries around the world. The metals and minerals industry was a significant driver of the country’s economic growth, contributing more than $164.8-billion to Canada’s gross domestic product in 2014.

Canadian exports in this sector included petroleum products, potash and precious metals, such as gold and silver, as well as other metals, such as iron, steel, aluminium and nickel.

Under the TPP, nickel products would also benefit from Japan eliminating a 3% tariff within ten years. The country had also agreed to cut tariffs of up to 7.9% within ten years for petroleum products and Vietnam was expected to drop tariffs of up to 30% within the next decade.

• [Editor:Juan]