Alberta is looking to diversify its international markets as trade and tariff uncertainty builds in Canada.
With that in mind, the province's Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson is taking a trip to Vietnam and the Philippines to help increase opportunities with other nations and open new markets for Alberta's agriculture and food products.
“Expanding on our relationships with international partners is an important step towards the diversification of our agricultural markets," Sigurdson said.
This move is part of a bigger mission for Alberta to better position itself as a reliable trade partner globally.
During his visit, Sigurdson will meet with Philippine and Vietnamese agri-businesses, officials and investors in hopes of creating connections and promoting Alberta's food exports in Southeast Asia.
"Establishing a strong presence in Southeast Asian markets during this groundbreaking mission will help ensure the long-term success of Alberta’s economy and agri-food sector," said Sigurdson.
Last year, Vietnam and the Philippines were the second and third largest Southeast Asian markets for Alberta's agriculture and agri-food exports, with more than $257 million worth of products being exported between the two places.
