Clearwater Seafoods took home the award for Exporter of the Year at the 30th annual Export Achievement Awards, which were held today, May 29, in Halifax.

“Congratulations to Clearwater Seafoods and all the nominees for their success in exporting,” said Michel Samson, Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism.

“Exporting and international trade help Nova Scotia businesses grow, compete globally and is critical to the prosperity of our province.”

“Exports are a major engine of economic growth and critical to Canada’s long-term prosperity,” said Rob Moore, Minister of State, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. “Nova Scotia’s exporters are fuelling that growth through the accomplishments celebrated today at the 2014 Nova Scotia Export Achievement Awards.”

Eight Nova Scotia companies, recognized in their communities by regional chambers of commerce, also received honours at the awards ceremony. The regional award recipients are:

— Scothorn Farms Ltd., Hardwood Lands, Hants Co.
— OTS Ltd., Sydney
— Dalton Industries, Truro
— RPS Composites Inc., Lunenburg
— Ocean Leader Fisheries, Lower Wedgeport, Yarmouth Co.
— Nova-Agri, Canning, Kings Co.
— Guy’s Frenchys, Digby
— Stright-MacKay, New Glasgow
— Clearwater Seafoods, Halifax

This year’s keynote speaker was James Surrette, president of Surrette Battery in Springhill. Mr. Surrette spoke about his experiences in exporting, including the challenges he faced in expanding into new markets. Currently, Surrette Battery is Canada’s only remaining independent battery manufacturer and exports to more than 14 countries spanning four continents.

The Export Achievement Awards celebrate Nova Scotia companies and are presented by Nova Scotia Business Inc., and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

This year’s event was hosted at the World Trade and Convention Centre. For more information about the awards, visit www.exportachievementawards.com .

Source: Release