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Michigan, Ontario negotiating waterways strategy

Michigan and the province of Ontario are negotiating a strategy to boost trade opportunities in the region.

The region’s automakers and suppliers are a big focus of the discussions, but Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and Ontario Premier Kathleen Winn say there are also opportunities in tourism and agriculture.

Trade between Michigan and Ontario added up to $74 billion last year.

Snyder says the state and the province can leverage shared industries and regional water resources. 

“Your real competition isn’t your neighbor, most likely it’s some other part of North America or the world.”

They say the goal is to double maritime trade in the region and reduce pollution and invasive species.

Upgrading the locks in Sault Sainte Marie to handle larger ships is a top priority.

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