Agriculture and Forestry Minister Oneil Carlier will promote Alberta’s agriculture sector during a trade mission to the United Arab Emirates and India later this month.

The trade mission supports the efforts of Alberta’s agri-businesses and agri-producers to increase exports into these growing markets and to renew agricultural trade agreements, including in the areas of Alberta's beef, canola, pulses, forage and swine genetic sectors.

“Expanding our international trade and investment relationships creates jobs in Alberta and further diversifies our economy. Both countries have tremendous opportunities, with growing markets for Alberta’s high-quality food and agriculture products.” says Carlier.

One of the highlights of the trip will be participating with Alberta companies in the Gulfood Trade Event in Dubai which attracts food and hospitality exhibitors and buyers from more than 160 countries.

Carlier will also tour a camel dairy operation.

In 2016, Alberta’s exports of agricultural products, including canola, wheat, hay, dry peas and livestock to the UAE totalled about $153.6 million and exports to India totalled $82 million.

The minister leaves Thursday February 23 and returns March 3, 2017.