Issue link: http://clhia.uberflip.com/i/821274
15 9.0 Conclusion Canada's financial services sector is a success story and many Canadian companies are among the most competitive in the world. The international success of these companies brings significant gains back to Canada in the form of both direct and indirect employment, increased innovation and capital. While this success is something of which Canada should be proud, we have only scratched the surface of our full potential. There are concrete steps that the Canadian government can take to increase growth and ensure the long-term competitiveness of the sector. Canadian life and health insurers need a supportive domestic environment in which to grow. Sound policy is built on the foundations of a clear understanding of the economy and the economic performance of different sectors. Improved metrics for the financial services sector must be a priority both for Canada, and for its peers. Without a more detailed picture of trade in financial services, it will be difficult to measure and build the sector. Canada's financial sector regulatory policy has been recognized as one of the most sound in the world. There are ways that Canada can leverage this reputation to its advantage including through the promotion of best practices internationally and increased dialogue between regulators. This is especially important for areas of strategic interest to the sector, such as the Asia-Pacific region. FTAs are another avenue by which Canada can promote the interests of the sector. The CETA is expected to provide gains to the financial services sector and has set a high standard for future agreements. Among the FTAs currently under negotiation, the TiSA and the Canada-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement are of particular interest to Canadian life and health insurers and our members remain strongly supportive of the timely conclusion of ambitious agreements. Furthering our strategic partnerships with key markets such as China must also remain a priority, especially in instances where Canada's long-term economic and political interests will benefit from deeper engagement. Canada is home to a strong and vibrant financial services sector. Strategic trade policy combined with a supportive domestic environment will allow Canadian life and health insurers to thrive on the global stage.