The House of Commons Standing Committee on International Trade studies and reports on matters referred to it by the House of Commons. The Committee can also initiate studies of subjects falling within its mandate. As a permanent committee established by the Standing Orders of the House of Commons, the Committee may be asked to comment on legislation, departmental activities and spending, and other matters under its jurisdiction. The Compendium of the House of Commons Procedure contains additional information on the mandate and powers of standing committees.

The general subject area of the Committee includes the following:

• international trade policy, including trade and investment liberalization, as well as Canada’s economic relationship with other countries;

• Canadian international competitiveness, as well as the effects of global competition on Canadian business and the Canadian economy; and

• the global trade and investment environment, including the World Trade Organization, international markets and regional trade blocs.

The federal departments and agencies under the Committee’s direct scrutiny are:

• Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (international trade component)

• Export Development Canada

• Canadian Commercial Corporation