This release was issued under a previous government.

Minister Carlier is joining Alberta industry and business representatives from November 22 – 28 to develop commercial and trade opportunities in Japan.

“The Government of Alberta is committed to diversification of our economy and expanding markets for our products. This is an important opportunity to assist Alberta’s industries in building relationships to gain access to the global marketplace.”  

Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry

“Japan is a particularly important market for the forest sector because of the high-grade lumber, pulp, and paper products that we provide them. We anticipate exploring a number of arrangements with Japanese businesses while promoting Alberta’s record as an environmentally responsible supplier of resources during the mission.”

Paul Whittaker, President, Alberta Forest Products Association

Japan is a priority market for the export-oriented agricultural and forestry sectors. Last year, Alberta agri-food exports to Japan totaled $1.2 billion, with forestry product exports adding another $290 million.

This trip builds on a similar mission in May 2014, which resulted in $11.8 million in sales as well as new agreements and new business for Alberta’s economy. 

The Minister will also participate in 35th anniversary celebrations marking the signing of Alberta’s sister province relationship with Hokkaido, Japan.

The estimated cost for travel, meals, accommodations, ground transportation, receptions and meeting costs for Minister Carlier and one political and one departmental staff is $36,225.

Minister Carlier’s Itinerary

Date

Activity

November 23

Arrive Japan

Briefing with Alberta Japan Office

November 24

Meetings
- Canadian Embassy
- Alberta Forestry Roundtable
- Japanese Forestry company
- Japanese Government Officials

November 25

Meetings
- Japanese paper company
- Food retail outlet senior representative

Agriculture Stakeholder Event

November 26

Depart for Sapporo

Forestry Products Seminar Event

Meeting with Hokkaido Government Officials

Forestry Stakeholder Event

November 27

Hokkaido Museum – gallery opening and 35th anniversary events

November 28

Depart Japan for Edmonton

*Note: Itinerary subject to change.