Introduction to Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

Location: Online.

Overview

Free webinar helping Toronto businesses understand FTAs, reduce tariffs, and use trade agreements to access global markets.

Understanding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is a critical first step for any Toronto business considering international expansion. Whether you work in technology, food & beverage, creative industries, manufacturing, professional services, retail, or green industries, FTAs can open doors to new markets, reduce your costs, and lower barriers that typically make exporting challenging.

As part of the City of Toronto’s Trade Diversification Webinar Series, this introductory session will break down what FTAs are, how they work, and how businesses can immediately start leveraging them when exploring new international markets. This webinar is designed for companies that are new to exporting or are evaluating global markets for the first time and want to better understand the practical advantages FTAs offer.

Participants will leave with clear, accessible guidance on how FTAs reduce risk, increase competitiveness, and support long‑term growth when entering global markets.

This session will answer key questions including:

• What are Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and why are they important for Canadian businesses?
• How do FTAs lower trade barriers such as tariffs, customs processes, and regulatory requirements?
• Which major FTAs does Canada currently participate in and what do they mean for businesses in Toronto?
• How can FTAs help you identify strategic new markets and reduce the cost of exporting?
• What role do FTAs play in building supply chain resilience and expanding your customer base?
• What tools and supports such as the Trade Commissioner Service exist to help first‑time exporters navigate FTAs?
• What practical steps should you take to determine whether an FTA‑covered market is right for your business?
• What benefits do FTAs offer for companies looking to export services?
• Join us to learn more about why and how Toronto businesses diversified their trade strategy.

Speaker Bio:

Rachel Gam has been a Trade Commissioner with the Ontario Regional Office of the Trade Commissioner Service since 2024. She covers the Forestry and Wood Products, Traditional Building Products, and Modular Housing sectors, supporting Canadian entrepreneurs in exporting their products, services, and technologies abroad.