With the goal of growing Manitoba’s economy and strengthening relationships with South Korean partners, Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable is representing the Manitoba government on a Team Canada Trade Mission delegation to South Korea, led by federal Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Minister Mary Ng.
“From our strong agriculture sector to our clean hydroelectric grid and wealth of critical minerals, Manitoba has a lot to offer trade partners around the world,” said Cable. “This mission will help us build long-term trade and investment partnerships with South Korea, as part of our economic advancement plans and to create good jobs for Manitobans.”
Manitoba business delegates joining Cable on the mission include representatives from companies in the agri-food, information and communication technology and life science sectors.
During the four-day mission, Cable will take part in meetings and networking events with government officials, embassy representatives and businesses from Canada, Manitoba and South Korea. The minister noted this is a prime opportunity to promote Manitoba’s competitive advantages in clean hydroelectricity, agriculture, critical minerals, creative industries, information and communication technologies, life sciences and education, including its skilled workforce.
Cable will also be meeting with representatives from South Korean post-secondary institutions and the research and innovation sectors.
“Manitoba has been a host to international students from South Korea for many years and we value their contribution to our province and the knowledge and innovation they bring to our post-secondary institutions,” said Cable.
Cable’s visit will include a wreath laying at the War Memorial of Korea, honouring and paying tribute to the Canadian soldiers who fought in the Korean War more than seventy years ago.
The Indo-Pacific is the world’s fastest-growing economic region. Manitoba’s total trade with South Korea for 2023 was $313 million with domestic exports valued at $196.7 million. Manitoba‘s leading exports for 2023 were pork, wheat, automatic data-processing machinery, malt and oats. Manitoba pork exports have grown in value to $162 million in 2023 from $36.9 million in 2018, an increase of 340 per cent, noted Cable.
