Canada has recently become the largest North American pork exporter to China.

Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Oneil Carlier, says Alberta pork is viewed as a quality product around the world.

"I've had the opportunity to go on several trade missions to Japan, China, and India, where they really appreciate our product. I can remember my visits to grocery stores in Japan, where they were highlighting Alberta pork."

He adds he would like to take advantage of the good pork prices right now. Canadian pork is exported to 29 countries, which is $400 million in sales.

Trade agreements have recently become a hot topic, and Carlier says he remains optimistic about future trade agreements.

"I was some what disappointed, and I'm sure a lot of our agriculture producers were as well, that the original TPP was not going to go through, at least not with the United States. I am encourage by Japan and other countries talking about how they can still do a Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement without the United States."

He adds, he is encouraging the Federal Government to continue with the bilateral agreements with countries, such as Japan and South Korea, to ensure these markets stay as open as possible.