BioMarine Business Convention 2017 - Minister Jean D'Amour presents the Québec government's vision of the marine biotechnology industry

RIMOUSKI, QC, Oct. 2, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - During the eighth BioMarine Business Convention, being held this year in Rimouski, Minister for Maritime Affairs Jean D'Amour presented two key strategic thrusts of the Québec government's vision of the marine biotechnology industry, i.e. create a market-oriented, integrated, innovative industry throughout Québec that focuses on external markets, and ensure the sustainable management of fishery resources. This stance is entirely in keeping with the framework of this important gathering, which is bringing together numerous trading partners for Québec.

Minister D'Amour took advantage of the event to emphasize Québec's numerous advantages and enormous development potential in the marine biotechnology industry, including the abundance of the natural resource, developed scientific expertise, an established marine products processing industry encompassing 70 businesses, and a broad presence in the fishing industry.

"We want to bolster and support each segment in the chain, from research to marketing. We also intend to broaden Québec's participation in strategic partnerships between governments and ensure the sustainable management of fishery resources. It is this vision that is underpinning the elaboration of a marine biotechnology development action plan. Who can say how many remarkable discoveries and beneficial applications will stem from shared exploration of this abundant, fertile environment? The adventure has just begun and we need solid partners, like you, to achieve our ambitions."

Minister for Maritime Affairs Jean D'Amour

The Maritime Strategy
The Maritime Strategy, like the Plan Nord, is a major economic initiative for Québec. It targets the optimal, responsible use of Québec's maritime potential and comprises measures to develop maritime transport, tourism and marine resources in the maritime territory. By 2030, the Maritime Strategy will engender several billion dollars in investments and lead to the creation throughout Québec of 30 000 direct jobs. Its action plan calls for investments on the order of $2.9 billion over the first five years.

To obtain additional information on the Maritime Strategy or to consult it, please visit www.stratégiemaritime.gouv.qc.ca.

SOURCE Cabinet du ministre délégué aux Affaires maritimes