The trade doors between Alberta and the State of Meghalaya, India have been opened, which the provincial government says will lead to opportunities for livestock and crop producers alike.

The two signed a Memorandum of Understanding over the weekend, which will see an immediate increase in the sale of swine genetics from Alberta to Meghalaya,  as well as create a working group, which will strive to work towards expanding trade and cooperation on products like canola, pulses and agricultural machinery.

Premier Alison Redford says this is a big trade deal for the province.  ““This region of India has a population of more than 40 million – that’s more than Canada’s population – and it holds huge opportunities for Alberta agriculture producers. In particular, this means Alberta’s innovative and efficient pork producers will have new and exciting opportunities in India,” said Premier Redford.

In a statement, Alfred Wahl from Polar Genetics believes this is a huge step forward.  “Cooperation between the two Governments and their respective departments and agencies provides a great opportunity to work with the Indian Ministries of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Bureaus and agricultural and veterinary institutions. This will open the door for Alberta companies to meet with agriculture departments and provide more access for our province’s agricultural products,” said Wahl.

India is already Canada’s largest market for pulses, which includes dry beans, chickpeas and lentils.