Gov. John Baldacci arrived in Toronto today to join the 2008 Gubernatorial Trade Mission in progress, according to his press office.

This is the fifth Gubernatorial Trade Mission under the Baldacci Administration.

"Canada is Maine's largest trading partner," Baldacci said in a statement. "It's vital that we continue efforts such as the trade mission to attract new business to Maine and increase the markets for Maine goods."

The last four trade missions yielded more than $16 million in projected international sales for Maine businesses.

According to the Maine International Trade Center, Canada imported approximately $900 million in goods and services from Maine in 2007. August data from the trade center shows year-to-date, trade with Canada is up more than 15 percent.

The 2008 Gubernatorial Trade Mission participants include officials from the Bangor Region Development Alliance, the Maine Lobster Promotion Council, the Maine Composites Alliance and WahlcoMetroflex.