Good evening everyone. I am enjoying my VIP flight – there is no turbulence – only blue skies ahead for China and the Northwest Territories. On behalf of my colleagues and business associates here with me from the Northwest Territories, I would like to share our excitement at being at the Beijing Fur Fair with evening and thank the organizers, the China National Native Produce and Animal By-products Import and Export Company. Please allow me to introduce my fellow VIP passengers from the Legislative Assembly: Mr. David Ramsay, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment and Mr. Robert Hawkins, Member of the Legislative Assembly.
In the Northwest Territories, we pride ourselves on providing healthy, high-quality fur for sale. At every auction our wild fur is in very high demand, particularly from Chinese buyers. Buyers have told us they want our wild fur because of its unique, high quality appearance and luxurious feel.
The Government of the Northwest Territories works in partnership with other organizations, including our colleagues at the Fur Harvesters Auction, and their CEO Mark Downey, to promote the fur industry and to ensure the industry’s success.