All media requests should be directed to Émilie Potvin, Director, Public Affairs, epotvin@chamber.ca, (613) 238-4000 ext. 231 or
(613) 797-1860.

Ottawa, January 18, 2012 - “Today’s decision denying the Keystone XL pipeline proposal deepens America’s dependence on hostile or unreliable suppliers and will cost U.S. jobs,” says Canadian Chamber of Commerce President Perrin Beatty. “Canada should continue to press for a positive decision to build Keystone, but it’s also time to diversify our energy markets.”

The U.S. State Department rejected TransCanada Pipeline’s proposal this afternoon. While TransCanada has announced its intention to apply for a permit for a modified route, today’s announcement delays a final decision until after the 2012 U.S. presidential election. The project was initially delayed after the state department postponed its decision under pressure from U.S. activist groups. The initial Keystone project was approved in 693 days, but the debate on the current project has already taken almost double this time.

Ottawa, January 18, 2012 - In a report released today, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce argues that Canada-China ties are quickly becoming one of Canada’s most important external relationships. Today, more than ever, what happens in China represents both a challenge and an opportunity for Canadian businesses.

“There is a clear need for more and better Canada-China trade,” said Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. “Of course, there are barriers in both countries that must be removed in order to open access to the tremendous opportunities ahead and build a partnership of shared growth and prosperity, but we cannot let these stop us from realizing the full benefits of the relationship.”

Ottawa, January 10, 2012 - The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the revised Rules of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) entered into force on January 1st, 2012. The new Rules apply to arbitrations commenced on or after January 1st. Arbitrations commenced prior to January 1st will continue to be governed by the previous version of the ICC Rules.

The ICC Arbitration Rules were revised in order to better serve the existing and future needs of businesses and governments engaged in international commerce and investment, with the aim of ensuring efficient and cost-effective arbitration.

Ottawa, December 28, 2011 - In its 2012 Economic Outlook, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce observes that Canada’s sound banking system, comparatively better fiscal position, resilient housing market and strong corporate balance sheets have steered the economy through turbulent waters in 2011, but 2012 might bring a more challenging reality and constrained growth is expected.

“Fortunately, Canada has fared relatively well in 2011 but we expect modest growth ahead, constrained by a very challenging external environment, especially the situation in Europe.” said Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. He added: “Needless to say, these are very uncertain times for the global economy, and the risks are significant.”