SPECIAL REPORT INSIDE 11-PAGE SPONSORED SECTION IN CO-OPERATION WITH DISCOVERY REPORTS Country Report SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2011 Long-lasting bond continues to flourish

Country’s strong ties with are based on widespread family, business ’s Lions Gate Bridge is a familiar landmark to generations of Hongkongers and educational links, writes Al Campbell who have made the city their home.

f all the Canadians living in and radio stations, and print Hong Kong were sent home, it’s publications. estimated they could form Other businesses, among others, Canada’s 16th largest city. include Wing Wing, which exports Such are the strong ties Chinese-style pork sausages to Asia Ibetween Canada and Hong Kong, a from its Vancouver base; Tom Lee November survey by the Asia-Pacific Music, which has stores throughout Foundation (APF) found that there ; and GolfBC, a were 295,930 Canadians living here. chain of 12 clubs in British Columbia The Vancouver-based think tank and Hawaii, owned by the Chan found in its survey of nearly 36,000 brothers, Tom and Caleb. local households – representing 1.5 Hong Kong developers are also per cent of 2.34 million households – changing the Canadian landscape. that about 7.85 per cent had at least Aspac Developments, a private one Canadian over the age of 18. company owned by the Kwok “Hong Kong is Asia’s most brothers of Sung Hung Kai Canadian city,” says Yuen Pau Woo, Properties, has moved on from president and CEO of APF Canada. transforming downtown “People-to-people ties between Vancouver’s Coal Harbour to Canada and Hong Kong are based creating Village Green, a massive on extensive family, business and mixed-used residential project next education linkages. They are an to Richmond’s Olympic Oval. asset in trans-Pacific business, Concord Pacific, a company diplomatic and socio-cultural started by Victor Li and now owned relations that deserve greater by fellow Hongkonger Terry Hui, has recognition in Canada.” several projects in British Columbia, While the influx of mainlanders, and the waterfront and in and their subsequent investment in . Likewise, Henderson everything from property to mines Development (Canada) has been to the Alberta oil sands project, has active in residential and commercial been headline news in Canada, they projects in British Columbia and are following a beaten path Ontario. established by the early migrants Richard Lee, the British from Hong Kong and Guangdong. Columbia Parliamentary Secretary With Statistics Canada reporting for the Asia-Pacific Initiative, says a population last year of 1.3 million Canada-Hong Kong ties run deep. Chinese-Canadians living in a As Hong Kong is a gateway to the country of 33.5 million people, the mainland, so British Columbia is reach of Hongkongers throughout Canada’s Pacific gateway, and there Canada is vast through a variety of are many connections to help with business and social interests. Sino-Canada trade. Far from the early settlers who “Hong Kong people here are well established corner stores, laundries established and they can help this president, is confident trade will It still maintains a significant level of business operating in Hong Kong broad in Hong Kong about what president Canada. She adds that and restaurants, the newer trade,” says the Kennedy Town continue to rise with Hong Kong relevance, vis-a-vis Canadian and the mainland, the ties goes on in Canada.” Cathay Pacific Canada employs generation of Hong Kong businesses native. “There’s a lot of connections playing an important role. businesses trying to do business traditionally have been social and A strong indication of the ties is more than 700 people, making the in Canada include Li Ka-shing’s between Hong Kong, British “I know a lot of Canadian in Asia. Hong Kong has a great family oriented,” says McDonald, a Cathay Pacific, which has country significant for passengers Husky Energy, one of the country’s Columbia and the mainland.” companies are starting to go direct infrastructure and good body tax service partner in the Vancouver experienced steady growth in its 28 and cargo, another growth area. biggest oil companies; Asia-Pacific According to China’s General to Shanghai, Beijing and bypassing of knowledge that you can office of PricewaterhouseCoopers. years of flying to Canada. “Seafood and other fresh Marine Containers, owned by Leung Administration of Customs, bilateral Hong Kong but, the reality is, Hong leverage off.” “You look at the number of “With Hong Kong’s continuous produce is a significant part of the Maritime Group; and Richmond, trade between the two countries last Kong is still a great base to access Barry McDonald, a past people in Hong Kong who may not attraction as a destination and a cargo moving from Vancouver, British Columbia’s Aberdeen year was US$37.1 billion. The stated mainland markets, particularly the president of the Canadian Chamber only be citizens [of Canada], but convenient gateway for passengers while dry goods are more dominant Centre, a popular shopping mall in goal is to hit US$60 billion by 2015. Pearl River Delta region,” says the of Commerce in Hong Kong, views have gone to university here, or have travelling onward to the mainland from Toronto,” Lau says. the Vancouver suburbs owned by With US$4.5 billion in trade Otis Gold Corp president. the ties as more social. family ties. and Asia, we believe the additional “On the inbound flights to Thomas Fung Wing-fat. The Sun between the two countries in “But we are also continuing to “Although we are seeing Hong “You can have more interesting capacity we put in Toronto and Canada, we carry mainly electronics, Hung Kai Finance scion also owns January this year, Craig Lindsay, the see more Canadian businesses use Kong and mainland entrepreneurs discussions about Canada in Hong Vancouver through aircraft garments, plus a variety of other the Fairchild Group, a national Hong Kong Canada Business Hong Kong as their base to jump setting up in Vancouver and Kong than you can here for that upgrades will be timely,” says goods originating from the media chain comprising Association’s Vancouver section into other Southeast Asian markets. Toronto, and some Canadian matter. It’s just the awareness is so Lavinia Lau, Cathay Pacific’s vice- mainland.” Whales add to Vancouver Island’s timeless charm

Ed Peters swim on past Tofino, up to a dozen birds that make the area their home, that have miraculously been swept take up residence, spending the while the comical-looking tufted undamaged by the currents all the There can be few greater contrasts summer moving from bay to bay, puffin is a popular crowd-pleaser. way from Asia. For the hikers with than Vancouver and neighbouring before moving into one of their A short boat or plane trip from their dogs, it’s the uninterrupted Vancouver Island. The former is a favourite feeding grounds in Tofino leads to Hot Springs Cove, vistas, the firm sand beneath their fresh Pacific capital city, bursting Clayoquot Sound. where heated water bubbles up in a feet, and air that is fresh and pure with confidence, while the latter – an When the main body migrates series of pools from underground enough to taste. hour’s ferry ride away – is a gentle, south again to breed and give birth, springs in a 100 per cent natural A major part of the charm of rugged mass where the pace of life the Tofino resident whales join up alfresco jacuzzi. Similarly Tofino is its distinct small-town rolls with the breakers that pile in and swim off with them. Many of spectacular are the rainforests where ambience. The airport – built to from the Pacific Ocean. Tofino’s former shrimp fishermen centuries-old Sitka spruce trees, counter possible enemy invasion in It’s a part of British Columbia have converted their boats and now some more than three metres in the second world war – is about as that many visitors often skate by en run whale-watching tours, offering a diameter, tower 90 metres high, low-key as it’s possible to get. The Canada’s war dead are remembered each year at Sai Wan. Photo: Martin Chan route to the province’s more guaranteed sighting or a voucher – forming a thick, almost eerie adjacent golf course runs to just nine prominent attractions, but for valid for 100 years – for a second, canopy. holes and is described as Vancouverites – and particularly its free trip. If nature is Tofino’s greatest “challenging”. On and around Main sizeable Chinese population – the Some 14 metres long and attraction, the place is at its most Street, there’s a liquor outlet, a Veterans remember island ranks as their own backyard. weighing up to 40 tonnes, these elemental on Chesterman Beach. church, a few stores and souvenir And it’s no small coincidence leviathans on their annual odyssey Even on busy days, its broad shops, and a clutch of restaurants. that aircraft flying in from Hong provide watchers with an experience expanse appears deserted. It has a Everybody knows everybody Kong bound for Vancouver that can only be described as different appeal for all its many else, from the surfers, whose life is International coast right above the awesome. visitors. For the surfers, encased in the beach with a little work thrown island’s tiny western port of Tofino, An Inukshuk sculpture in English The grey whales are just the most wetsuits and with eyes fixed firmly in to keep the dollars coming, to the This year will see the 70th who was captured on Christmas their first Canadian landfall since Bay, across from Vancouver Island. obvious of the area’s wildlife. out to sea, it’s the superb wave artists – painters, sculptors, belly anniversary of the Battle of Hong Day, and Frederick Arthur Cooper. setting off from Asia. Kayakers can spot river otters, crests. For the beachcombers, it’s dance teachers – and residents who Kong – an event which has Cooper told how he and his From spring until late October, some 20,000 head north to feeding harbour seals and bald eagles. the treasure that might be washed run the major businesses, all happily particular poignancy for Canadians. comrades were forced to build an grey whales are a constant feature grounds off Siberia on an 8,000- Auklets, murrelets, ospreys, blue up, from a container load of leading their lives at the edge of the It was in Hong Kong that airport runway for their captors off the coast. Their appearance kilometre trip that started in Baja, herons, loons and cormorants are designer shoes that once fell from a ocean with nothing but water all the Canadian soldiers first committed to before being shipped to Yokohama. begins with a migration parade, as Mexico. While most of the whales among more than 400 species of cargo ship to fishermen’s glass floats way to Hong Kong. battle in the second world war. Two “It was hard work with not much brigades of Canadians, the Royal food, but we had no idea how much Rifles of Canada and the Winnipeg worse it was about to get … but I Grenadiers, fought against made it back. I married the love of overwhelming odds and suffered life, and we still live happily Scholarships strengthen UBC’s links with alumni in the region tremendous casualties, before together today. I have six wonderful Allied forces were overrun on children, 10 grandchildren and four Christmas Day, 1941. great grandchildren.” Student scholarships have been established, chapters have been world’s 40 best universities. It is also Since 1947, the 1,975 Canadian In honour of the veterans’ visit announced to mark five years since opened in Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul, celebrating the 50th anniversary of soldiers who fought to defend Hong and the 65th anniversary of the end the University of British Columbia Beijing and Shanghai. its department of Asian studies and Kong against the Japanese have of the war, the consul general of (UBC) opened its Asia-Pacific The period has also seen further 10 years since it established the UBC been remembered in a ceremony at Canada held an exhibition of more regional office in Hong Kong. collaboration between the International MBA degree Sai Wan War Cemetery. Among than 30 photographs taken during Five special entrance University of Hong Kong (HKU) and programme, offered in co-operation those troops were 550 who died in the arrival of Canadian soldiers in scholarships, worth C$5,000 UBC, resulting in a joint legal with Shanghai Jiao Tong University. battle or captivity. Hong Kong in 1941, the battle and (HK$40,057) each for studies education programme and the There are now more than 200 The ceremony takes place on the occupation of Hong Kong and, beginning in September, will be opening of Simon K.Y. Lee HKU- alumni and present students of the The University first Sunday of December, which finally, its liberation. awarded in order to strengthen links UBC House on the Vancouver programme. of British represents the start of hostilities in “History usually tells us stories of with alumni in the region. campus. “As UBC works towards stronger Columbia is Hong Kong on December 8, 1941. the victories that we as Canadians The university’s regional office The Canadian university’s Go international engagement, I am consistently The 69th anniversary saw a visit by can claim,” says Veterans Affairs was established here to build on Global Exchange programme has delighted we are celebrating the ranked among the Hong Kong Veterans minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn. “But links between Vancouver and expanded with new opportunities university’s presence in expanding the world’s Commemorative Association, we must never forget the Hong Kong. for students wanting to study and do ties to the Asia-Pacific region,” says 40 best which included those who saw determination and strength of these It supports research and research overseas, particularly the university’s president, Stephen universities. action in the battle. men and women, who bravely academic programmes, keeps across the Asia-Pacific. Toope, who adds that the Hong Among the veterans who fought until the Allies had to contact with alumni, and drives The University of British Kong office “has helped build and Andrew Davis, associate director- here offers the opportunity to travelled to Hong Kong for the surrender. The Battle of Hong Kong student recruitment and Columbia is one of Canada’s largest enhance partnerships throughout general of InvestHK, which helped strengthen education and research ceremony were Arthur Kenneth had one of the highest casualty rates development opportunities. teaching and research institutions, Asia, while serving its students and establish the Asia-Pacific link, says collaboration with universities in Pifher, who was taken prisoner of of any Canadian battle during the Since the regional office was and consistently ranked among the alumni”. the growth of the university’s office Hong Kong and the region. war for four years, Horace Gerrard, second world war.” S6Canada Country Report FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2011 SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST Sponsored section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Humber promotes real-world international learning

he success of an educational technical institutes. “We are not simply technical diploma, and then use the appeals to students who may not be programme content, delivery and the Ningbo campus studying English and institution is best measured by the largest technical institute in Humber pathway system to finish one of entirely sure about their career path. placements, ensuring graduates are business. For the third year, these how its graduates apply their Canada,” says Michael Hatton, the degree programmes.” Also notable is how Humber’s four- work-ready. students study in Canada at Humber to studies. Alumni of the best Humber’s academic vice-president. These pathways allow students in year degree programmes are the Humber also participates in complete an advanced diploma. The colleges, institutes and “More importantly, our size allows us to business, media studies, social services, fastest-growing segment in the international development projects with third stage involves degree completion Tuniversities are expected to contribute offer more programming choices at polytechnic. “For international students, influential organisations such as the at Humber or with the student’s choice significantly to their economies, their more levels than any other similar there is often no other choice than the Asian Development Bank, the World of partners in several Canadian communities and the world’s storehouse institution in the country.” full baccalaureate programme,” Hatton Bank and the Canadian International provinces and in the United States. of knowledge. Humber’s North and Lakeshore Many students, says. Development Agency. Humber faculty More than 100 Humber-Ningbo Humber Institute of Technology and campuses enrol an annual full-time An increasing number of these and students supported third-tier students have gone on to degree Advanced Learning, Canada’s largest student population of more than 25,000. with support from students are found in accounting, development related to rebuilding small completion in the US, where graduation polytechnic, prepares its students Humber attracts 2,500 international international business, film and media and medium enterprises after the 2004 provides opportunity to receive a work through small-class sizes, state-of-the- students from more than 85 countries their parents, production, criminal justice, interior Asian tsunami. permit in that country. This three-country art facilities and programmes that relate around the globe as well. Three-quarters design, tourism and nursing. The special The institute cultivates relationships partnership is proving to be increasingly directly to local and global economies. of these international students come elect to do a two- appeal of these programmes is that it with universities abroad for knowledge attractive to students and enrolment is By offering career-focused degrees, from Asia, with the largest groups offers work terms or clinical placements exchange and to instil an international rising. diplomas and graduate certificates that coming from the mainland, India and or three-year and post graduation eligibility for perspective in its students. Through The phenomenal success of the combine theory and application, Humber South Korea. applying for a Canadian work permit strategic partnerships, Humber links Humber-Ningbo partnership has made it ensures that each graduate leaves the With more than 150 degrees, technical diploma good for three years. students in Canada to the rest of the the ideal model for further partnerships institution with the capacity to act as a diplomas and graduate certificates, Michael Hatton Keeping programme curricula world and vice versa. with other universities, such as Jimei catalyst for a better world. there is something at Humber for almost Academic vice-president, Humber aligned with the working world is One of Humber’s most successful University on the mainland, and the Located in Toronto, Humber is a every student interest. “A large number fundamental to the polytechnic’s vision. international partnerships is with Ningbo Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and founding member of Polytechnics of students are attracted to Humber Every programme at Humber has an University. Launched in 1996, the Tourism in . Humber plans to Canada – a national alliance of the primarily by our pathways,” Hatton says. policing and other disciplines to first advisory committee comprised of Humber-Ningbo joint programme has expand this programming and is looking country’s nine leading research- “Many students, with support from their focus on applied studies, before moving experts from the respective field. These three stages. Between 150 and 200 for new partners throughout Asia that Michael Hatton, academic vice- intensive, publicly funded colleges and parents, elect to do a two- or three-year to the degree level. This particularly experts provide insights that shape students spend their first two years in share its drive for commitment. president, Humber Canadian National Railway enables ‘three coast’ supply chain in China-Canada trade

In an industry where size matters, being firms exploring resource tie-ups in nimble is its own reward. Canadian Canada. With offices in Beijing, National Railway (CN), the largest railway Shanghai, , Qingdao and in Canada with a North American Tianjin, CN has often played the role Claude footprint, calls it precision railroading. of bridge builder for the trade of Mongeau, “We are the best carrier at offering coal, iron ore, lumber, potash, president supply chain solutions to our customers,” sulphur and even crude oil between and CEO says Claude Mongeau, president and the two countries. CEO of CN. This is why CN is highly regarded This has been the company’s focus not only by Chinese firms, but also since its privatisation 15 years ago. As the Japan’s top brands and South Korean only three-coast railroad in North industries. America, CN’s footprint spans Canada’s CN is keen on the expansion of the east and west coasts, and extends into Asia-Pacific Gateway Corridor the Midwest United States. initiated by the Canadian Recognised among shipping lines, government to boost terminal operators and global traders as trade ties not only as a their fastest and most reliable partner in gateway to the US, but the region, CN has become a supply itself as a major chain enabler in its industry. resource supplier to “How we bring the parties together, Asia. how we focus the supply chain, “With the understanding the movement of goods multitude of options and the bottlenecks and what it takes to about how to move come together as a team to provide the a container from better service, that is our journey at the Asia to America, moment,” Mongeau says. only CN can have With Asia fast becoming the focal this dialogue on point of world trade, CN has evolved as the three coasts,” the “go-to organisation” of mainland Mongeau says. Nuclear renaissance brings Laramide into high gear

With a nuclear renaissance in full swing, by mining giant Rio Tinto, the Queensland entered the picture in 2007, with a nuclear Laramide Resources looks forward to full- resource is expected to deliver at an expansion programme of 80 gigawatts scale production within the next few annual rate of 3 million to 4 million pounds. (GW) by 2020, which it has since raised to years that would catapult the company This alone places the company within 112 GW. Henderson says the mainland’s among the world’s uranium heavyweights. range of the global top 10 in the uranium demonstrated ability to hurdle cost and “Given the calibre of the assets that business. Westmoreland is expected to complexity concerns that have plagued we own, I think that’s achievable,” says reach production stage by 2015 following Western companies is a strong signal that Marc Henderson, president, CEO and an anticipated loosening of state-level this second wave will reach expected director of the Toronto-based firm. restrictions on uranium mining. peaks. With up to 500 GW of nuclear Laramide’s flagship asset is the However, Henderson expects its power generation expected by 2020, Westmoreland Uranium Project in United States assets to raise the including those in India, South Korea and Queensland, . Previously owned company’s visibility in the uranium space Japan, Laramide’s long-term viability is much earlier. Start-up production at La thus assured. Sal, its small mine asset in Utah, is within The company is keen on off-take deals reach this year with the possibility of with utilities and project financing to processing the resource at Denison advance production plans. Being based in Mines’ nearby White Mesa mill. Another Canada, the world’s strongest country in asset, La Jara Mesa in New Mexico, itself mining finance, and listed on the Toronto located 320 kilometres from the mill, is Stock Exchange where it has assured expected to reach the production stage by North American investors of strong 2013. Laramide also earns royalties from bottom-line earnings, Laramide is well- last year’s uranium stock phenomenon positioned for regional investors as well. Uranium Resources, which has assets in The company plans to eventually list on Texas and New Mexico. the Australian Stock Exchange, and Prospects in the global uranium possibly in Hong Kong. business have soared since the mainland “Our goal is to get enough scale that we’re a multi-project source and supplier Marc Henderson, president, for utilities because they need reliability of CEO and director of Laramide supply,” Henderson says. Inclusive service is key in logistics according to Canaan Transport

Canaan Transport defines itself in three mainland, Canaan sees itself enabling solutions that have equal parts Western words: All you need. With its trade between Canada and China. and Eastern business methodologies, headquarters in Toronto offering a full China and southeast Asia are already Canaan is responsive to different types of range of logistics solutions, the company major markets. Canaan has a night team logistical challenges and is truly a has set itself apart with this quality of that attends to Asian customers in real reliable professional freight forwarder, service in the Canadian marketplace. time. Shipment status is fully visible on- warehouse and customs broker in “We try to be as inclusive as line, with a customised network facility Canada. possible,” says Perry Lo, president of that allows customers to feed tracking- Canaan, who says his passion for related information and receive updates. dedicated service is a legacy from his Responding to market demand, Canaan father, the late Paul Lo, who founded the has ventured into cargo consolidation for company in 1981. its Asian customers with partners in Celebrating its 30th anniversary this China and other Asian countries. year, Canaan has proven its mettle in The company is keen on increasing Perry Lo, taking on world-class projects like the its presence in Canada because keeping president of on-time delivery of trains for the the local focus is key to its success. Canaan Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and “When our partners come and see that serving as an inland co-ordinator of Canaan has full coverage of Canada, aircraft parts for Bombardier. But the they can have confidence in our effective company remains grounded on its niche: and efficient service,” Lo says. medium-sized businesses that Canaan’s custom-built warehouse in appreciate the personal touch of a Richmond, British Columbia spans seven professional and established logistics acres and is located in a customs- firm. With strong cultural ties to the approved duty-free zone. By providing S10 Canada Country Report FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2011 SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST Sponsored section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Seafood specialist brings Asian flavours ACS takes road safety to North America driving solutions to China

Hong Kong immigrant David Lam had a consumers, grocery chains, Asian food eginning with an idea to help both the compliance monitoring and With a strong foothold in developed significant advantages to many dream: to provide Asians, who had stores, high-end Japanese restaurants curb alcohol-impaired driving automotive markets. Equipped with GPS Western regions, ACS is focused on governmental, administrative and migrated to Toronto, with the food and and food service operators across accidents, Alcohol and wireless communication capabilities, intensified expansion into Asia. It aims to commercial entities for controlling flavours of home. Armed with an Canada and the US. “TFI offers a Countermeasure Systems ACS’s next-generation ALCOLOCK GR capture emerging markets, particularly in or mediating risk management,” accounting degree and business savvy comprehensive line of 3,000 products, (ACS) has been provides administrators with real-time Singapore, , Japan and China, Comeau says. “We have a solution gleaned from his family’s seafood which range from frozen seafood – our Brevolutionising road safety for more than information about a driver’s test results through partnerships and subsidiaries. that works everywhere in the world – processing business, Lam founded Tai core business – to dry staples such as three decades. and the vehicle’s location. “We always partner with local companies and it can be adopted within the Foong International (TFI) in 1977. rice, instant noodles and canned goods,” Established in 1970 as a research Other new and upcoming innovations or set up a subsidiary corporation regulations of each community to From a one-man business, TFI, under says Shirley Chan, sales and marketing division, the company initially developed make use of biometrics, nanotechnology, because we recognise the need to have a effectively stop a person from Lam’s leadership, has grown into one of director of TFI’s Asian division. breath alcohol testers for law infrared sensing and distant consistent presence and commitment to drinking and driving.” the leading seafood importers in North TFI also represents reputable brands enforcement applications. As the market spectroscopy. the area,” Comeau says. America. “I was photocopying my and provides value-added services for grew and driving precautions drew more China stands out as a target handwritten fliers, sticking price lists on customers, including custom packaging, attention, so did ACS. It branched out to destination due to the company’s three- windows, making sales calls and taking to meet their portion control cater to the automotive, industrial, public We maintain our lead pronged objectives in establishing a hub orders,” the TFI president says. specifications. The company brought and personal safety sectors, and in the industry by of operations. Apart from seeing it as a With an extensive sales and renowned brands such as Thai Gold and expanded its product range to specialise potentially large market, ACS also relies distribution network in Canada and the Ox Head jasmine rice to Canada. It also its offerings for various commercial investing at least on the mainland’s abundant components United States, TFI employs 220 staff in its handles and distributes in Canada well- segments. supply and believes that it is an ideal headquarters in Toronto and branches in reputed Hong Kong products, such as Among ACS’s flagship inventions 10 per cent of our location for assembly and manufacturing. Calgary, and Vancouver. Its Maxim’s mooncakes, Garden biscuits and since 1985 is the ALCOLOCK series. Its Backed by more than 30 years of processing plants in Thailand and Doll frozen dim sum and instant noodles, sophisticated design requires a driver to revenue in research experience selling various alcohol breath , which meet the highest food and Malaysia’s OldTown white coffee. pass a breath control test before starting Felix Comeau testers in the region, the company safety standards, employ 800 workers. “TFI works closely with the principal the vehicle. Proving effective, the product Chairman and CEO, ACS recently launched ACS China in Lam’s guiding principles of suppliers to develop comprehensive quickly found its way into commercial Dongguan, Guangdong. diversification and providing new and marketing programmes to target buses, trucks, taxi fleets and private ACS earned ISO 9001:2000 and Shifting its mainland operations into high-quality products and services have segments,” Lam says. vehicles. It has spurred further research 14001:2004 as well as TS 16949 full gear, the company seeks local brought about TFI’s TFI is seeking new partners with long- and development initiatives, which certifications, and it protects its products research and academic institutions that steady growth. term vision and innovative products to continue to pioneer more alcohol-sensing with worldwide patents to ensure quality can provide a deeper understanding and The expand its customer base in North technologies and equipment, including and reliability. It operates globally through connection with the Chinese market. “We company America. The company also aims to portable and coin-operated units that can its satellite offices throughout Australia, look forward to working with Chinese supplies import more products from Bangladesh, be installed in restaurants and bars. Europe, Asia and the US in addition to its vehicle manufacturers to develop local high-quality India and Pakistan to supply immigrants “We maintain our lead in the industry 6,000 square metre headquarters in solutions for vehicles specially designed seafood from those countries who are in Canada. by investing at least 10 per cent of our Toronto, Canada. for the domestic market,” Comeau says. products to It is also sourcing Canadian products for revenue in research, which is conducted The company has installed most of its “In the next three to five years, we would export to Asia, specifically the mainland. by highly trained scientists and products in after-market applications such also like to partner with automotive OEMs David Lam, Aiming to establish a closer link engineers,” says chairman and CEO Felix as a pilot programme in Sweden since that aim to sell internationally and show president between North America and Asia-Pacific, Comeau. “We also have partnerships with 2000 and the regulated bus market in that vehicles coming out of China are both TFI set up a sales office in Hong Kong in universities and research facilities in France since 2010. It has co-operated with reliable and safe.” 2008. The sales office has successfully Canada, the United States and Europe as automotive original equipment ACS also participates in trade introduced value-added frozen seafood well as various automotive groups with manufacturers (OEM) since 2004 and missions in Asia and engages in products into the local market. which we leverage combined science begun mounting preinstalled ALCOLOCK international research and Northern King and Thai Gold and engineering.” systems in cars, buses and trucks from implementation projects, through which branded products can be found at One of the company’s latest Volvo Trucks, Volvo Cars and Iveco. Other it reaches wider recognition from Jusco, UNY, CRC and Yata breakthroughs is the development of high-profile customers now include government and commercial institutions. Felix Comeau, supermarkets. alcohol interlock technology targeted at Mercedes-Benz and EvoBus. “Our products can provide chairman and CEO

Selwyn eyes giant zinc-lead mining prospect Supply chain solution expert bridges the world

Selwyn Resources is poised to while lead is mainly used in Every organisation venturing into global administration, client financing and bring to the market a major zinc- batteries. expansion could use a reliable partner credit management support to lead mine within the next three Selwyn Resources has outlined that fully understands the complexities distribution and delivery. years, as it advances development a staged development of its zinc- of international trade – a partner that To ease flexible global trade, Synaps of one of the largest zinc-lead lead deposits. The first stage is to encourages localisation, enables International has identified five deposits in the world. develop underground mines near a transitions and bridges cultural barriers. strategic locations for its commercial Listed on the venture board of block containing up to 26 million Synaps International is such a partner. hubs – a central hub in Toronto, with the the Toronto Stock Exchange, tonnes of high-grade resources. The Synaps International was others in Bangkok, Mumbai, Sao Paolo Selwyn Resources is a single- initial target is to produce 255,000 established in 1998 and focuses on and Shanghai. purpose company which owns the tonnes per annum (TPA) of zinc and supply chain solutions, sourcing and The Toronto and Shanghai hubs are entire Howard’s Pass District in 65,000 TPA of lead. The second marketing opportunities primarily in already operational and the rest are Canada’s Yukon territory. After stage involves open-pit mining to Asia. expected to follow later this year. about a decade of exploration, it increase zinc production to 490,000 Its parent company, The Wheels The birth of Synaps International has defined 388.4 million tonnes of TPA and lead to 133,000 TPA. Group, has combined 100 years of was also inspired by an early friendship high-grade zinc-lead deposits, on With the completion of its deal expertise in engineering, implementing with Bailian, a major mainland retailer. which a bankable feasibility study is with mainland firm Yunnan Chihong, and managing supply chains in the Bailian first approached the group expected to be completed within the 50-50 joint venture Selwyn North American transportation industry. for its North American market expertise. Denis Horgan, vice-president the year. Chihong Mining will co-manage the Recognised among Canada’s 50 best Synaps International was instrumental and general manager The mine is scheduled for implementation of this plan. This managed companies for 14 consecutive in instigating co-operation between commercial production by 2014. strategic alliance should place the years, The Wheels Group counts Bailian and a big Canadian food retailer. This is perfect timing for the project Selwyn Project on the radar of customer engagement and intuitive Established on the mainland in 2004, Facility, to address an impending shortage mainland investors and banks. service delivery as keys to success. Synaps International leverages its of zinc and lead supply for industrial Selwyn Chihong will actively “We promote best-of-breed expertise in supply chain and products expansion in the region. seek project financing next year. The solutions in the global trade of high- to move quality food and food-related capacity “Zinc is poised within the next success of such an undertaking quality goods and services,” says Doug product imports into China. 12 to 18 months to outperform all the would establish Selwyn Resources Tozer, CEO of The Wheels Group and “We want to be the bridge, other major base metals,” says as a partner of choice for North Synaps International. facilitating trade flows between the upgrades Harlan Meade, president and CEO American companies in the base The company explores every aspect mainland, Canada, and other key global th of Selwyn Resources. Zinc is used metal space looking to broaden of the supply chain to remain a valuable markets,” says general manager Martin mark 40 for galvanising and metal alloys, horizons on the mainland. Harlan Meade, president and CEO partner to customers, from sourcing, Doug Tozer, CEO Hall. anniversary of Westshore

Westshore Terminals has been at the forefront of supplying coal between mining companies and their overseas customers for more than 40 years, moving more than 645 million tonnes in the process. Tracing its roots back as Kaiser Resources’ captive port, shipping metallurgical coking coal to Japan in the 1970s, Westshore has grown to become North America’s busiest export coal terminal. It has evolved into a stand-alone public company servicing 12 mines across Canada’s southeastern British Columbia and west central Alberta and the United States. “The products have diversified into steel-making and energy coal, and the markets have expanded to South Korea, the mainland and Europe,” says Westshore vice-president and general manager Denis Horgan. With the recent industry upswing, Westshore has begun breaking records in transporting unprecedented amounts of coal. The company shipped a record four million tonnes to the mainland last year. It surpassed its two million-tonne shipments from the US in 2009 with its more than five million-tonne record last year. Westshore has a rated capacity of 29 million tonnes of coals annually and provides storage for up to two million tonnes, following a second major facility and capacity upgrade completed last April. It has two rotary railcar dumping stations, rail dumpers, yard systems, stacker reclaimers and two deep-sea berths, key assets that enable efficient loading to large vessels. The terminal maintains a transparent relationship with mining companies and their customers, welcoming both parties to visit and work at its 53-hectare facility. It co-operates with rail operators, ensuring smooth transport regardless of terrain and weather. “We are an integral part of the coal chain – mining, rail, port – we are joined at the hip,” Horgan says. With the automation of key processes under way, Westshore is further investing in streamlining its operations and maximising its capability. “We value our existing customers, and we will continue growing to meet their needs,” Horgan says. S12 Canada Country Report FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2011 SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST Sponsored section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Financial leader brings expertise to Asian clients

ighly diversified, client- several years,” says Gordon Nixon, CEO Building on strengths focused, and strong risk of RBC. “As Asia-Pacific economies, management – these are the and particularly China, expand in the RBC is expanding its two largest and defining characteristics that years to come, our goal is to make a most successful global businesses – allowed the Royal Bank of meaningful contribution to the financial capital markets and wealth HCanada (RBC) to not only withstand the goals of our clients, be they personal, management – into Asia to target financial crisis, but to actually grow and corporate or institutional.” governments, companies and high-net- improve its competitive positioning in The bank’s announcement last worth individuals throughout the region. the past few years. November about the acquisition of “One of the key ingredients for success While other banks struggled with London- and Tokyo-based BlueBay is playing to your strengths as an capital and liquidity issues, RBC hired, Asset Management will offer significant institution, and we have two world-class invested and expanded its operations value to clients in Asia and transform strengths in these two businesses,” and product offerings. The bank also RBC’s global asset management Nixon says. “In fact, we are the only continued to offer a strong balance platform to HK$1.9 trillion in assets under Canadian bank that has a truly global sheet and world-class advice to clients management. business in capital markets and wealth around the globe. RBC’s position of “RBC has quickly grown to be a management.” strength is the envy of many of its global global leader in wealth management RBC’s experienced team of capital competitors. services globally, and we were proud to market research analysts will certainly RBC’s business is diversified across see this reflected in our ranking as one bring a competitive edge to Asian five segments: wealth management, of the world’s top 10 largest wealth The Royal Bank of Canada offers world-class advice to clients. clients. capital markets, insurance, international managers by Scorpio Partnership’s According to the 2010 Brendan banking and Canadian banking. Global Private Banking KPI Benchmark the communities is critical to our for continued growth in its home Wood International review of This diversification has been key to the 2010,” Nixon says. continued success globally,” Nixon market and for accelerated growth institutional equity research, sales and bank’s remarkable earnings stability RBC has a strong risk management says. “It is for this reason that diversity from its overseas business. Canada trading performance in Canada, RBC throughout the financial crisis and culture, which influences its expansion is one of our core values and that we presently makes up 60 per cent of Capital Markets is the top equity ensuing global economic uncertainty. and acquisition activities. All of its have made it an enterprise priority in our RBC’s total revenues, but the bank sees research group with an industry-leading RBC was the first Canadian bank to investments are made carefully, and organisation.” this shifting as its global operations share of top-rated analysts. In addition, establish ties with the mainland in with a long-term perspective. Present in 50 countries, RBC is listed grow. RBC has one of the most extensive 1954, and has had an office in Hong “We take the same level of care and on the New York and Toronto stock “Having a strong home market is global research coverage teams, with Kong for more than 50 years. discipline in managing our bank and exchanges. Serving more than 18 million one of the key ingredients in being a more than 100 analysts covering more Well known in the Asia-Pacific investing as we do in advising and strong global financial institution,” than 1,100 equities and corporate clients. region as a top counterparty in serving our clients,” Nixon says. “We Nixon says. “And so, while you will see Meanwhile, the rapidly growing fixed income products, RBC is find our clients want to deal with a the proportion of international revenues number of high-net-worth individuals in intent on building its financial institution that not only has the One of the key grow relative to Canada, our home Asia-Pacific will have access to the presence in the region expertise and capabilities they need, but market will continue to be the services of a leading provider of wealth through its international also has the strength and reputation to ingredients backbone of the organisation.” management services, as recognised by expertise in capital inspire confidence in a long-term Following its successful expansion the numerous awards RBC Wealth markets and wealth partnership with us.” for success in the US and in Europe, particularly in Management has won across the globe management. In addition to the bank’s on-the- the British Isles, RBC aims to replicate in the last year. The bank has ground operations throughout Asia- is playing to its success in Western markets in the RBC will continue to invest in these operations in Hong Kong, Pacific, RBC’s ties to Asia are evident in East. two business segments to expand its Tokyo, Sydney, Canada. More than 65 per cent of new your strengths As Asia continues to attract customer base and capabilities to Singapore, Beijing, Canadian immigrants hail from Asia, and investors, the region becomes an provide more products and services to and Mumbai. It RBC has successfully tapped this influx as an institution increasingly important market for RBC Asian customers. The bank is also open has doubled the size of of newcomers with services offered in Gordon Nixon to serve its global clients. In fact, Asia is to acquisitions to expand its wealth and its capital markets and Putonghua. As a result, it CEO, Royal Bank of Canada home to some of RBC’s largest asset management business and its operation in Hong has become the bank of choice in investing clients today. trading platforms. Kong, building a new Canada for more than 1 million Asian- “Many companies are trying to Observing an increase in demand for and larger trading Canadians. clients worldwide, RBC employees expand their businesses in high-growth fixed income securities, RBC also turns floor, increased RBC is headquartered in Toronto, enjoy a workplace regarded by markets like Asia,” Nixon says. “But, to its fixed income business as a United States one of the most ethnically and culturally Canada’s survey of Canadian while it is very easy to grow a bank catalyst for growth. The bank seeks to dollars product diverse cities in the world and the new businesses as one of Canada’s Top 100 and to grow your assets, what’s much build its business in global fixed income, trading activities for home of thousands of new immigrants Employers for three consecutive years. more difficult is to grow a franchise global foreign exchange and local Asian clients and each year. RBC seeks the same kind of It has also been named one of the Best with enduring value, built on an markets. acquired Fortis diversity within its businesses, not just Workplaces in Canada in an annual increasing base of strong client “We can add a lot of value to our Wealth because it is the right thing to do, but study by the Great Place to Work relationships and a respected brand. customer base in Asia by being very Management because it also makes good business Institute Canada and The Globe and RBC has always been in the latter strong and good at what we do,” Nixon Hong Kong. sense, Nixon says. Mail. business.” says. “We are not trying to be all things “We are Meeting the needs of an Because of Hong Kong’s strategic to all people, but to focus on those areas building the increasingly diverse client base is an Expanding in international location in the region and its ties we do exceptionally well in and have a critical mass to imperative for any company, and RBC with the mainland, RBC designated distinct competitive advantage.” grow has received numerous accolades and markets Hong Kong as its Asia-Pacific base. With these concrete plans for its significantly in awards for its commitment to diversity. RBC is also present on the mainland, expansion in Asia, RBC is the region over “We believe strongly that having a With the leading share of the Canadian Brunei, Singapore, Japan, India and committed to the region for the long Gordon Nixon, CEO of the Royal Bank of Canada the next workforce that understands and reflects financial services market, RBC is looking Australia. term.