Jason Morgan, Sales and Marketing Director of Mercan Group: "The sky is the limit for collaboration between Canada and Portugal"

Jason Morgan talked to journalist Teresa Lencastre from CMC about the new Portugal-Canada Chamber of Commerce

Trade between Canada and Portugal already totals $3.7 billion, and the new Portugal-Canada Chamber of Commerce and Industry aims to further strengthen this relationship. With the goal of supporting businesses and boosting transatlantic investments, the organization seeks to facilitate business and promote new commercial opportunities.

In an interview with Correio da Manhã Canada (CMC), Jason Morgan, Vice President of the organization, explains the importance of this initiative, the sectors that stand to benefit the most, and the events scheduled for the near future.

Correio da Manhã Canada: What does this organization consist of?

Jason Morgan: The purpose of the Portugal-Canada Chamber of Commerce and Industry is to help foster economic and commercial relations between the two countries. In the current global trade context, especially between the U.S. and Canada, but also the U.S. and Portugal, we believe that now is the best time ever to invest in this initiative, as this chamber can fill the existing gap.

CMC: Was this initiative created in response to tensions between Canada and the U.S.?

JM: No, it was planned before. The geopolitical tensions did not affect this project, but they reinforced our objective. Our counterparts in Portugal already have the Portugal-Canada Chamber of Commerce, established last year. Based on that framework, we are now expanding and organizing our calendar because we believe that this chamber can address an important need.

CMC: Tell us about your Portuguese base. How will this new chamber differ from other existing organizations?

JM: We plan to work closely with our Portuguese counterparts, such as AICEP Lisbon, as well as the Canadian Embassy, to strengthen trade between Canada and Portugal, which already amounts to $3.7 billion. It is a mid-to-long-term project. We also aim to help develop commercial missions to Canada for Portuguese companies looking to expand their businesses.

CMC: How do companies become part of this new chamber?

JM: For now, they can contact us via email. Soon, we will have a dedicated website, but for now, they can find us on LinkedIn under the name "Portugal-Canada Chamber of Commerce and Industry." We are also working to establish our presence in Halifax. Over time, I believe we will strengthen this relationship even further, given that Canada, Portugal, and, by extension, Europe, are natural business partners.

CMC: What makes Portugal a natural entry point for goods and services into Europe?

JM: Proximity, as I mentioned, is one of the most important factors. There are no borders. Unlike other countries, Portugal faces the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, the country has an extensive maritime trade tradition. If Portugal can deliver products effectively, it will increase its potential as an entry point for North American companies into the European market.

CMC: Does the event in Canada require registration?

JM: Yes, but registration is very simple. Just contact us via our LinkedIn page. We are also using other social media platforms to spread the word, and we are doing everything we can to facilitate participation. AICEP and the Toronto Consulate have been invited to join, as well as Atlantic businesses and other associations.

CMC: Given the current state of trade in Canada and the world, is there any government incentive for businesses to explore the Portuguese market?

JM: I believe there are many incentives, and this is one of the reasons why we created the Chamber. We have a strong economic and diplomatic relationship with Portugal. This means that in the near future, we may see an increase in business connections. Portugal has also hosted business summits for European partners, and I believe we will have more of these opportunities soon.

CMC: Which sectors will benefit the most from this new chamber?

JM: In addition to the traditional trade sectors, industries such as aerospace, agriculture, and tourism will gain importance. Many Portuguese companies have already established themselves in Canada, particularly in the province of Quebec. There are also emerging fields such as technology and green energy, which are priorities for both countries. There is enormous potential, and I see Canada as a major commercial "hub" for European markets as well.

CMC: Both countries have been impacted by economic instability. Do you believe this initiative can help commercial sectors?

JM: I think so. Both economies have faced challenges, but I believe this initiative can provide greater business security. Our primary goal is to expand our membership base. Then, we want to understand what companies need from us in terms of business adaptation, regulatory adjustments, and financing access. This is precisely where the Chamber can make a difference.

CMC: Are there obstacles that could delay the Chamber’s progress? How do you plan to overcome them?

JM: When new markets and new business models emerge, the biggest challenge is breaking habits and generating trust. Logistics is always a key factor. Obviously, Canada is a huge country, but we need to ensure that Portuguese products, such as food and wine, can be easily distributed. That is our first challenge: facilitating logistics in a more efficient way.

CMC: What message would you like to send to Canadian and Portuguese businesses interested in joining this new opportunity?

JM: I would say that the sky is the limit for collaboration between Canada and Portugal. If there is a natural connection between our cultures, it makes sense that our businesses grow together as well. We know this, we understand it, and we will work with you to make it happen.

Watch the full interview here.