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Downtown Kelowna, 2026 (Image Credit: Vernon Matters Staff)
By Vernon Matters Staff
Okanagan business boost

Kelowna Chamber to host Canada’s chief trade commissioner

Nov 2, 2026 | 10:54 AM

The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce is bringing Canada’s chief trade commissioner to the Okanagan next week to discuss opportunities for local businesses looking to expand beyond the U.S. market.

Sara Wilshaw, senior assistant deputy minister of international trade and chief trade commissioner of Canada, will headline a session Tuesday, Nov. 10, at the Innovation Centre in Kelowna.

The morning will focus on opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region and European Union, navigating free trade agreements and overcoming common barriers to international expansion.

Representatives from the Business Development Bank of Canada, Export Development Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will outline federal resources available to exporters.

Two Kelowna exporters and chamber members, Tony Weller of AEM and Jill White of Waterplay, will also share their experiences doing business internationally.

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Chamber CEO Ester Pike will introduce the session, which runs from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and includes networking and refreshments.

Registration is available through the Kelowna Chamber website.

by Vernon Matters Staff
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