Press Release For Immediate Release I.E.Canada and The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education Create New Customs & Trade Program Toronto, Ontario, March 14, 2012 – I.E.Canada, Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters and The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Ryerson University have announced the intent to create a Customs & Trade Program that will grant a customs and international trade designation to Canadian importers and exporters and other interested supply chain professionals. The total value of Canadian trade is $801 billion annually. Canada trades with over 200 countries worldwide. “Trade is becoming more complex and the skills required by those responsible for trade regulations and compliance continues to grow. This program will provide a benchmark for importers and exporters working in the field, recognizing their skill level and making it easy for employers to determine the quality of the individuals they are hiring,” said Joy Nott, I.E.Canada president. “International trade is crucial to the future competitiveness and prosperity of Canada. I am pleased that I.E.Canada, in partnership with The Chang School, will contribute to the vibrancy of the sector by developing and delivering innovative, relevant courses taught by leading industry experts to facilitate the establishment of professional accreditation for importers and exporters,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, Dean, The Chang School. “Professional accreditation plays an important role in providing assurance of the qualifications and ethical standards that business professionals have. This new program will facilitate a deeper understanding of the factors, issues and trends affecting the international movement of goods.” The Customs and Trade program is scheduled to launch in fall 2012 at The Chang School. It will be customized for industry professionals focusing on topics relating to compliance, safety, security and technology. I.E.Canada is also working on other streams of training including an Executive Program in which seasoned customs and international trade professionals can earn a professional designation. The program will be delivered through in-class, executive and online program options. For further information on these options please call Bob Sacco at I.E. Canada at (416) 595–5333 and Gervan Fearon at The Chang School at 416-979-5005. About I.E.Canada As the trade association that speaks on behalf of Canada’s importers and exporters, I.E.Canada’s objective is to foster Canada’s trade and economic competitiveness. Throughout its nearly 80-year history, I.E.Canada has worked with government and industry partners to promote trade and streamlined and efficient border processes. 1 About The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education Ryerson University’s The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education (www.ryerson.ca/ce) is Canada’s foremost provider of university-based adult education, facilitating access to the University’s renowned, professionally relevant courses and programs. Since 1975, we have been delivering leading-edge workplace knowledge that empowers learners to reach their personal and professional goals. We have approximately 70,000 annual enrollments (in more than 1,400 courses) in Arts; Business; Communication and Design; Community Services; Engineering, Architecture, and Science; Gateway for International Professionals; and Programs for 50+. We also offer 83 career-related certificate programs and numerous course series. Our flexible, accessible programming is available on campus, via distance education, and off-site for employee groups. -30Contact: Bob Sacco, I.E. Canada (416) 595–5333 Marilou Cruz, The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education (416) 979-5000 x. 4670 m1cruz@ryerson.ca 2