To address the housing crisis, Premier Ford announced two years ago that 1.5 million homes would be built within 10 years. Whether this ambitious goal can be achieved is a matter of opinion. However, if you pay attention, you'll notice that many vacant lots in the Greater Toronto Area are fenced off for housing development, but construction has yet to begin. Why is this? The construction industry, which contributes 61% to the national GDP annually, is currently showing strong interest from developers. Today, we've invited Wen Wenwei, the founding president of the Canada-China Architectural Association, to discuss this issue with you.
On September 15, 2024, the "Love from Zhejiang Across the Miles" Mid-Autumn Festival Gathering, hosted by the Zhejiang General Chamber of Commerce in Canada and co-organized by the Canada-China Architectural Association and the Zhejiang University Alumni Association of Canada, was held in Vaughan, Toronto. The outdoor venue was well-organized, with white sun-protective tents, a barbecue area, and various vendor booths creating a warm and lively festive atmosphere. The gathering brought together Zhejiang natives, entrepreneurs, and friends from all walks of life to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival and promote exchange and cooperation.
Host Hu Tingting opened the day's event with a warm voice. Her opening remarks, like a gentle breeze, welcomed each guest. She stated that this Mid-Autumn Festival gathering was not only a celebration of the traditional festival but also a continuation of the spirit of Zhejiang merchants—in a foreign land, everyone remains united and strives forward, pursuing their dreams together, just like the Mid-Autumn moon, a symbol of reunion, full and beautiful, illuminating the road ahead.
The event opened with a dragon drum performance, where the drummers played passionately, and the sound of the drums resonated throughout the venue.
Amidst enthusiastic applause, the Toronto Women's Dragon Drum Team's spectacular performance, "The Spirit of Dragon Drums," officially began. The synchronized drumbeats, the exhilarating rhythm, and the performance rich in traditional cultural elements brought the atmosphere to its first climax. The guests were deeply captivated by the wonderful performance, applauding continuously.
Speech by Luo Youfen, President of the Zhejiang General Chamber of Commerce in Canada
Speech by Mr. Liu Linlin, Commercial Counselor of the Consulate General in Toronto
Ontario MPP Vincent Ke delivered a speech and presented the certificate.
Speech by Mr. Wen Wenwei, Founding President of the Canada-China Architectural Association
Following this, the event moved into the guest speeches segment. Mr. Luo Youfen, President of the Zhejiang General Chamber of Commerce in Canada, spoke first, reviewing the journey of Zhejiang entrepreneurs in Canada and outlining future cooperation opportunities and development potential. Subsequently, Liu Linlin, Commercial Counselor of the Consulate General in Toronto, and Canadian Member of Parliament Vincent Ke, among other dignitaries, delivered speeches, expressing their respect for the Zhejiang business community and their bright vision for future Sino-Canadian cooperation.
Chen Zhong, Executive President of the Zhejiang General Chamber of Commerce in Canada, delivered a speech.
Speech by Timur, President of the Zhejiang University Alumni Association of Canada
Mr. Mario Racco, Yorkshire Councillor, Vaughan Local & Regional Councillor
Mr. Wang Haicheng, Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Chambers of Commerce in Canada and President of the Jiangsu General Chamber of Commerce in Canada
Host Hu Tingting
The cultural performances then unfolded. The song and dance "Yu Xi's Lament" brought elegant dance moves and a moving melody, as if transporting the audience to a classical dream. The solo "I Love You, China" was filled with deep patriotism, the passionate and moving vocals resonating with the entire audience. The dance "Hometown Clouds" evoked a profound longing for home, with every movement of the dancers imbued with emotion. The group dance "Bullfighting Dance" showcased a vibrant and passionate style, igniting enthusiasm and laughter throughout the venue. These wonderful performances brought the event to a climax, filled with laughter and joy, leaving every audience member with unforgettable memories.
The song and dance performance "Yu Xi Tan" features dancers performing gracefully and singing melodiously.
Dance "Clouds of My Hometown"
Group dance "Bullfight Dance"
As the dining session began, the vendor exhibition area was also bustling with activity. Under neatly arranged white tents, each vendor's booth was meticulously decorated, with a dazzling array of products and various Mid-Autumn Festival delicacies attracting a steady stream of visitors. The exhibition area not only displayed exquisite traditional snacks and drinks but also showcased a variety of specialty goods and business services, fully demonstrating the vendors' strength and dedication.
At the bustling booths, visitors lingered with great interest, sampling products and exchanging ideas. Many held small gifts and promotional brochures from the vendors. Between booths, people discussed cooperation opportunities while enjoying various fresh fruits, cold drinks, and snacks, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere. Under each tent, in addition to food, there were brand displays from various Zhejiang-based companies, ranging from construction to financial services, comprehensively showcasing the achievements of Chinese businesses in Canada.
People lined up to eat
As the aroma of lamb skewers filled the barbecue area, the atmosphere within the exhibition area grew increasingly lively. Vendors warmly welcomed guests at their booths, answering their inquiries, creating a bustling yet orderly scene. Guests strolled in small groups among the tents, enjoying the dual benefits of delicious food and business opportunities. The entire vendor exhibition area became an important part of this networking event, providing both a sumptuous dining experience and serving as a bridge for exchange and cooperation.
While enjoying the delicious food, the lucky draw was also in full swing. Guests held their raffle tickets, hoping for a stroke of luck.
Group photo of lucky draw winners
At noon, the highly anticipated business forum officially commenced. The forum was divided into two sessions. The first session, "Investment and Market Trend Analysis," featured insightful presentations from several industry leaders and experts. Chen Zhong, Chairman of Addington Developments, took the stage first, providing an in-depth analysis of future trends in the Toronto real estate market and detailing the company's innovative initiatives in construction and development. Following him, Wang Yan, President of Gemterra Developments, discussed real estate investment strategies from an investment perspective and shared the company's successful experiences in Canada.
Following this, Raymand Wan, Chairman of Eastway Construction, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Exploring the Impact of Interest Rate Cuts on Construction Companies." He provided an in-depth analysis of the potential impact of interest rate changes in the current North American economic environment on the construction industry, and offered forward-looking insights and specific suggestions for the development prospects of the Eastway construction industry in the digital age. Raymand Wan also emphasized that investment opportunities in the Eastway market are gradually emerging, encouraging attendees to pay attention to this trend.
Finally, Mario Racco, Vaughan Local & Regional Councillor, shared his insights on York Region's development plans, emphasizing the importance of investing in the region and encouraging Zhejiang entrepreneurs to seize opportunities and expand their investment footprint in Canada.
Chen Zhong, Chairman of Addington Developments, delivered a speech.
Speech by Wang Yan, President of Gemterra Developments
Speech by Ms. Sun Xiaoming, President of the Canada-China Investment Chamber of Commerce
Richmond Hill Councillor Binghui Cui presented an award to the Chamber of Commerce
Speaking by Mario Racco, Vaughan Local & Regional Councillor
Peter Ni, a fund manager at Royal Bank of Canada, speaks.
Raymand Wan, Chairman of Eastway Construction
Speech by Feng Jiande, Chairman of FRONTOP ENGINEERING LTD.
Huang Ping, President of Skyreach Group (Canada), delivered a speech.
The second session of the forum focused on the theme of "Zhejiang Businessmen Going Global," where several industry leaders shared their experiences and challenges in expanding into global markets. This forum not only provided attendees with valuable industry information but also inspired and opened up new cooperation opportunities for overseas Chinese businesspeople.
Speech by Lydia Yang, President of Fotile Kitchen Appliances Canada
A representative from Canada Excellence International Education Group spoke at the event.
Michael Zhao Zizhao, Chairman of Sany Heavy Industry Canada, delivered a speech.
Waycred Automotive CEO Hu Lingqing speaks
Bruce Zhang Xiajing, founder of Sanyo Kitchen Cabinets' flagship store Aline service (Canada) and chief consultant for Sanyo Kitchen Cabinets in Canada, spoke at the event.
Bob Zou, Chairman of B&J International Shipping Company, speaks.
Speech by Max Yi, Chairman of TITAN STONE (Tianyi Stone Industry)
Group photo of members of the Canada-China Architectural Association
The event concluded successfully amidst enthusiastic applause and laughter. This Mid-Autumn Festival gathering, themed "Love from Zhejiang, Shared Moment Across the Miles," not only conveyed heartfelt Mid-Autumn Festival blessings but also provided a platform for Zhejiang businesspeople to exchange ideas and cooperate, promoting the deeper integration of Chinese and Canadian economies and cultures. On this special holiday, overseas Chinese felt the warmth of home in a foreign land, laying a solid foundation for future common development.
CCCA Successfully Hosts the 2024 Autumn Member BBQ and the SANY-CCCA Strategic Partnership Signing Ceremony
On October 12, 2024, during the Canadian Thanksgiving long weekend, the "2024 Golden Autumn Member Barbecue Dinner and Signing Ceremony between Sany Heavy Industry and the Canada-China Architectural Association," hosted by the Canada-China Architectural Association, was grandly held at the Lakeside Manor in King City, Toronto. This grand event attracted over 800 distinguished guests from political, business, and community organizations, and all 500 parking spaces were fully booked. It was the largest and most high-profile outdoor event for the Chinese community in 2024 to date, with every seat filled and the event unprecedented in scale.
After the signing, the representatives of both parties shook hands warmly. Chairman Zhao Zizhao, on behalf of Sany Heavy Industry, presented Chairman David Yang with a custom-made 24k gold excavator model as a token of appreciation.
This signing ceremony marks the strategic cooperation between the Canada-China Construction Association and Sany Heavy Industry, a leading Chinese construction company. This is not only an important business collaboration but also a positive impetus for the future development of the construction industries in both China and Canada. Through this cooperation, both parties will deepen cooperation in multiple areas, including technology, resources, and markets, striving to achieve mutual benefit and win-win results, and propelling the construction industries of both countries to a higher level.
The Canada-China Construction Association hosted an Autumn BBQ Dinner and a signing ceremony between Sany Heavy Industry and the Canada-China Construction Association.
This event went beyond simply signing cooperation agreements; it aimed to build a platform for member companies to foster communication and collaboration. Through this platform, member companies can share resources, explore innovative and developmental paths within the construction industry, and jointly drive the industry's continued progress.
The Canada-China Construction Association and representatives from Sany Heavy Industry signed an agreement.
David Yang (right), President of the Canada-China Construction Association, and Michael Zhao, Chairman of Sany Heavy Industry Canada, signed a cooperation agreement.
Chairman Zhao Zizhao, on behalf of Sany Heavy Industry, presented Chairman David Yang with a custom-made 24k gold excavator model.
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— Tianyi Stone —
Speech by David Yang, President of the Canada-China Architectural Association
David Yang, President of the Canada-China Architectural Association, expressed his gratitude to everyone for attending.
Michael Zhao, Chairman of Sany Heavy Industry Canada, delivered a speech.
Michael Zhao, Chairman of Sany Heavy Industry Canada, delivered a speech.
Raymond Wan, Founding President of the Canada-China Architecture Association, delivered a speech.
Raymond Wan, Founding President of the Canada-China Architecture Association, delivered a speech.
The distinguished guests attending the event included: Ontario MPP Vincent Ke, Consul General of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Toronto Linlin Liu, Consul General of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Toronto Sheng Jiang, Consul General of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Toronto Wei Wu, Vaughan City Councillor Mario Racco and his wife, former Councillor Sandra Racco, and Richmond Hill Ward 4 Councillor Binghui Cui.
Important speeches were delivered by the dignitaries at the ceremony:
Ontario MPP Vincent Ke delivered a speech and presented a congratulatory letter.
Liu Linlin, Consul General of the Chinese Consulate General in Duomo
Richmond Hill City Councillor Binghui Choi delivered a speech and presented a congratulatory letter.
Vaughan City Councillor Mario Racco
Executive Vice President Bob Zou delivered a speech.
Executive Vice President Max Yi delivered a speech
Executive Vice President Daniel Xie delivered a speech.
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— The position is vacant.
Representatives from local associations and chambers of commerce also attended the event: Zhang Jinpeng, President of the Canada-China Real Estate Investment Chamber of Commerce; Xing Jiyuan, Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Associations; Yao Ying, President of the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce in Canada; Zhou Jie, Secretary-General of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Associations in Toronto; Li Yong, President of the Long Chamber of Commerce; Ma Xianmin, Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Associations in Canada; Wang Shuhe, Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Associations in Canada; Tan Shubai, Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Associations in Canada; David Lv, President of the Wenzhou Association; April Sun, Vice President of the Wenzhou Association; Jason Zhu, Vice President of the Wenzhou Association; Zhu Yan, Chairman of the Federation of Yunnan Associations in Canada; and Sonny, Chairman of the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Canada. Cho, President of Hubei Association - Luo Liangzhi, President of Gaya Alliance - Zhang Xiaohui, Straits Foundation - Gao Yaoxing, President of Anhui Association - Zhang Shenshu, Representative of Shandong Association - Geng Shen, Guangxi Association - Fang Qigang, President of Hebei Chamber of Commerce - He Jun, Representative of Henan Association, Representative of Toronto Chongqing Association, Representative of Toronto Business Club
Representatives from various chambers of commerce also offered their blessings for the event:
Zhang Jinpeng, President of the Canada-China Real Estate Investment Association
Speech by Xing Jiyuan, President of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Associations
Yao Ying, President of the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce in Canada
Secretary General Alex Huang presented the board membership certificate to Henry Ni, representative of the newly added board member company, Permacon ACRH Company.
Attending guests
The success of the event would not have been possible without the strong support of the sponsors, including the diamond, platinum, and stage equipment sponsors, who provided crucial resource support for the event.
Diamond Sponsor + Prize Sponsor: Titan Stone Tianyi Stone Industry
Diamond Sponsor: Permacon ACRH Company
Diamond Sponsor: Yahong Aluminum
Food + Platinum Sponsor: Canada Hung Mun General Hall
Diamond Sponsor: SmartStar Insurance
Materials Sponsor + Platinum Sponsor: Mr. Bin Inc.
Diamond Sponsor: Addington Development
Platinum Sponsor: Harstings Utilities Contracting
Platinum Sponsor: B&J North America
Platinum Sponsor: Conwell Construction
Platinum Sponsor: Sabastar Building Group
Platinum Sponsor: Maple Armor
Special Project Sponsor: Unilock
Raffle prize sponsors: Titan Stone, TOB, B&J North America, Million Wines, Royal Classic Kitchens, InsMax Beauty Lounge, Advance Travel
Meanwhile, multiple booths were set up at the event to showcase the latest products and services from various companies, providing guests with a wealth of interactive experiences.
The BBQ restaurant, "Whole Lamb BBQ at Your Door," operated by Wei Dong, provides delicious BBQ lamb skewers for everyone.
The BBQ party featured delicious roasted lamb, fresh fruit and desserts, a generous raffle with gifts and cash prizes, and exciting entertainment. Everyone enjoyed a wonderful weekend.
It is worth mentioning that all the work for this event, from its launch to its successful execution, was completed within just three weeks. The organizing committee members included:
David Yang, Raymond Wan, Alex Huang, Tony Lu, Bob Zou, Daniel Xie, Max Yi, Tommy Huang, Jo Zhou, Jack Zhang, Henry Ni, Alex Zhao, Dali
Hosts: Hsieh Feng (Daniel) and Zhou Ying (Jo)
The success of the event was also due to all the volunteers and staff, including more than 40 volunteers from the Canadian Hung Society. The event was hosted by renowned Toronto producer Daniel Xie (Da Niu) and Chinese female host Jo Zhou.
Tommy Huang (pictured), Director of the Association of General Managers of Transportation and Food.
Tony Lu, Executive Vice President in charge of food and venue coordination
Association Director Selina Zhang and Association Director Helena Hao
volunteer
The organizers specially invited two local bands, one of which was the well-known Toronto band Hurricane, and the veteran pop singer Lady Kaka. Their energetic singing and dancing performance brought everyone a vibrant and enthusiastic audio-visual feast, igniting the atmosphere of the entire venue.
Hurricane band and singer Lady Kaka
Gao Yaoxing and Cornerstone band members
KS Dance Troupe performed the opening dance before the event began.
KS Dance Troupe's opening dance
This "2024 Autumn Member Barbecue Dinner and Signing Ceremony between Sany Heavy Industry and the Canada-China Construction Association" not only strengthened cooperation between the construction industries of Canada and China, but also provided more opportunities for exchange and development for the local Chinese community. The Canada-China Construction Association looks forward to using this platform to encourage more companies to share resources, work together, and jointly promote the sustainable development of the construction industry.
