Provincial Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Oneil Carlier, will be travelling to the European Union with colleagues on a trade and investment mission.

Minister Carlier says, the E.U. presents tremendous opportunities for Alberta's exports of agricultural products.

"Expanding our international trade and investment relationships creates jobs in Alberta and further diversifies our economy."

Last year, Alberta's agriculture and food exports to the European Union were valued at $404 million.

While on the trip, they will visit the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany.

In Germany, they will be attending the Anuga Trade Fair, which is the world's largest trade fair for food and beverages. Alberta and France will sign an amended letter of intent to include forestry along with agriculture as an area for collaboration and research.

They leave  for the Netherlands September 30, and arrive back in Edmonton October 10.

The estimated international mission cost for Minister Carlier, one minister's office staff, and two department officials is $41,625.

 

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