News Release
Strengthening Alberta’s market presence in Southeast Asia
Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson will travel to Southeast Asia to promote Alberta as a reliable supplier of agriculture products.
Given the uncertainty surrounding trade in North America and the potential implications of costly tariffs, diversifying Alberta’s international markets is more important than ever. During this mission, Minster Sigurdson will strengthen relationships with Vietnam and the Philippines to increase trade and investment opportunities. This will directly benefit Alberta producers and processors, improving international connections for the province and opening new markets for Alberta agriculture and food products.
“Expanding on our relationships with international partners is an important step towards the diversification of our agricultural markets. 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.”
RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation
The mission is part of Alberta’s overall plan to position the province as a reliable trade partner and attractive market for investors across the globe.
During his visit, Minister Sigurdson will meet with Philippine and Vietnamese agri-businesses, officials and investors to strengthen ties, promote Alberta’s agri-food exports and boost trade and investment opportunities. He will also meet with prospective buyers to reaffirm Alberta as a consistent supplier of high-quality agriculture and agri-food products to Southeast Asia.
The Alberta government is committed to working with its national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for agri-businesses in Alberta and around the world.
The Minister will travel with two staff members. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.
Quick facts
In 2024, Vietnam and the Philippines ranked as the second- and third-largest Southeast Asian markets for Alberta’s agriculture and agri-food exports.
That year, exports to Vietnam were valued at $165.4 million and exports to the Philippines were valued at $91.9 million.
Major products exported to Vietnam included beef, wheat, feeds of vegetable origin, pork, other crude animal products and processed potatoes.
Major exports to the Philippines included wheat, pork, prepared animal feeds, beef and other meats.
The Philippines and Vietnam have populations of more than 110 million and 101 million, respectively.
Growing populations, combined with rapid urbanization and rising incomes, are driving increased demand for sustainably produced high-quality food in Southeast Asia. This presents opportunities for Alberta’s agriculture and food products.
Canada and the Philippines are currently exploring a potential free trade agreement that could strengthen trade relations and offer Alberta more opportunities to expand its presence in the Philippine market.
Both Canada and Vietnam are members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), facilitating trade through reduced tariffs and improved market access.
Itinerary for Minister Sigurdson
May 30 – May 31
Travel to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
June 1
Rest day
June 2
Meet with Consulate of Canada and Agri-food Trade Commissioner
Meet with government leaders in Ho Chi Minh City
Meet with key Vietnamese animal feed and livestock industry leaders
Meet with Vietnamese flour milling company and tour its facility
June 3
Meet with Vietnamese food processor
Meet with meat processor
Attend Canada Beef retail promotion
Attend Canada Beef networking event
June 4
Meet with key Vietnamese investors in consumer-packaged food products
Travel to Manila, Philippines
June 5
Meet with Embassy of Canada to Philippines and Canada’s Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office
Meet with Philippines national feed millers’ organization
Meet with Philippine leading fast-food investor
Meet with a leading provider of animal nutrition in Southeast Asia
Meet with Philippine investor in meat processing and ready to eat meals
June 6
Meet with Philippine food manufacturer and distributor
Meet with Philippine food and beverage company
Attend an Alberta profiling event with Philippine food influencers and writers
Meet with a Philippine leading food and beverage company
June 7
Supermarket tour of Albertan and Canadian products
Attend Alberta-beef focused promotional event
June 8
Travel back to Alberta
*Subject to change.
Pinoy Edmonton News 