Alaska’s exports to Canada increased seven percent in 2004 to $247 million from $231 million the previous year. Mineral exports increased five percent to $117 million in 2004, accounting for almost half of the value of Alaska’s exports to Canada. Red Dog mine is the world’s largest producer of zinc concentrate. In April 2004, the mine, which is operated by Teck Cominco under a development agreement with NANA Regional Corporation, Inc., joined an elite group of less than half a dozen metal mines in the United States certified under ISO 14001 Environmental Management System.

In addition to Canada’s purchases of Alaska minerals, mining companies with Canadian ties continue to make major investments in the state. Canadian investment by Vancouver-based Teck Cominco, along with that of their partners in Japan at Sumitomo, is expected to produce upto 500,000 ounces of Alaska gold per year for twelve years at Pogo Gold Mine once operations begin.

Seafood exports to Canada rose over 11 percent to $71 million in 2004. The export numbers reflect both Canadian domestic consumption of seafood and the role of re-exporter. Taking advantage of shipping rates out of Vancouver Asia, Canadian fish exporters and brokers buy Alaska seafood product to reexport to the Pacific Rim.

The Government of Canada opened a new consulate in Alaska, headed by Consul Karen Matthias, in September 2004. The establishment of the office and Consul Mathias’ immediate active involvement in Alaska is clear recognition of the historically strong ties between Alaska and Canada as well as the increasing importance of trade and cooperation between the two. The Anchorage office is one of several new consulates the Government of Canada recently opened as a result of its national effort to enhance representation in the United States. Alaska has the longest border with Canada, 1538 miles, of any state.

During 2004, Governor Murkowski’s initiatives with Canada for a gas line project and railroad expansion gained strong forward momentum. The Governor and Alberta Premier Ralph Klein signed an agreement to reaffirm and advance their common interests in transportation infrastructure and resource development. A new Alaska-Alberta Council was named.