October 4, 2016, FREDERICTON (GNB) – Premier Brian Gallant will lead New Brunswick’s largest-ever multi-sector delegation to China Oct. 7-15.

More than 15 businesses and two universities will participate in the nine-day mission, exploring new opportunities for trade and investment with the growing Chinese economy. Participating companies represent a range of sectors, including post-secondary education, seafood, information technology, education, manufacturing, industry and agriculture.

“China has one of the fastest-growing and largest economies in the world,” said Gallant. “We need to develop a stronger trading relationship with this economic powerhouse. With Prime Minister Trudeau’s recent visit and a resetting of China-Canada relations, there are significant opportunities for New Brunswick products and services. Increasing our exports means new jobs here at home.”

While in China, Gallant will meet with representatives of two major e-commerce portals, Alibaba and JD.com. The Chinese consumer market offers significant opportunities to New Brunswick companies making personal care products, mother/baby clothing, electronics technologies, ocean mapping technology, thermal conductivity instrumentation, french fries, beer including premium craft brews, salmon, blueberries and other food products.

Gallant will promote the province as a location for foreign direct investment to business executives at a luncheon in Shanghai. He will also promote New Brunswick products to Chinese businesses. As well, Gallant and Opportunities NB will facilitate meetings between New Brunswick and Chinese businesses to explore trading opportunities. In addition, he will participate in the official opening of the University of New Brunswick’s recruitment office in Beijing.

Following the mission, the premier will travel to Tokyo to attend the Young Global Leaders’ Summit.

MEDIA CONTACT(S):

Julie Robichaud, press secretary, Office of the Premier, 506-238-4256.