Atlantic Canada is setting its sights on Asia’s economic powerhouses. From Moncton to St. John’s, businesses across the region are venturing into new territory, pursuing fresh partnerships in South Korea and Japan during a week-long trade mission from September 14 to 20.
The mission, backed by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the four provincial governments, is more than just a business trip. It’s a strategic move to diversify exports, expand market access, and put Atlantic Canada’s expertise and products in front of some of the world’s most influential buyers.
“Atlantic Canadian businesses have built their reputation on quality, innovation, and ingenuity. Whether it’s seafood, clean tech, or aerospace, our region punches above its weight and is excited to create new opportunities and make new partners in Japan and South Korea. This mission is about more than exports; it’s about forging relationships that will help our companies grow and diversify, while strengthening Canada’s ties across the Indo-Pacific,” explained the Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
Building Bridges in South Korea
In Seoul, the delegation of 28 companies and organizations is focusing on supply chains and commercial networks in one of the Indo-Pacific’s most advanced economies. South Korea’s appetite for innovative solutions and reliable suppliers offers a fertile ground for Atlantic Canadian firms looking to scale globally.
Showcasing at Expo 2025 in Japan
The mission’s momentum continues in Japan, where Tokyo and Osaka host a flurry of activities. A highlight is Atlantic Canada Day at Expo 2025 in Osaka—a prime stage to spotlight the region’s competitive strengths. From seafood to clean tech and beyond, the showcase positions Atlantic businesses as agile, export-ready, and primed to deliver value to Japanese buyers and investors.
“Japan and South Korea are already Canada’s fourth and seventh largest export markets. Nova Scotia’s seafood industry has long recognized the value of these markets—and the broader Indo-Pacific region. On this mission, companies from medical technology, bioscience, and natural resource-based manufacturing will join seafood and agrifood companies to experience these opportunities firsthand. At a time when economic growth is more vital than ever, we’re focused on what we can control: expanding into new markets, strengthening trade across Canada, and maintaining our reputation for reliability and quality,” expressed the Honourable Colton LeBlanc, Nova Scotia Minister of Growth and Development.
A Regional Push With National Backing
The initiative is part of the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Agreement (ATIGA), a collaboration between federal and provincial partners. The program is designed to help businesses seize opportunities in emerging markets and expand Canada’s economic footprint abroad.
“New Brunswick’s agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries sectors are ready to showcase the world-class products we proudly produce. Trade missions like this one strengthen our global connections, open new markets, and create lasting opportunities for our producers and exporters. By working together across Atlantic Canada, we can drive growth, strengthen our competitiveness, and secure a strong position in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific region,” said the Honourable Pat Finnigan, New Brunswick Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries.
“Prince Edward Island is proud to once again bring our province’s strengths to the global stage. While we are known as Canada’s Food Island, we are also a dynamic, diversified economy with businesses and innovators ready to build strategic international partnerships. Through dedicated events during this mission, such as PEI day at the Expo 2025 in Osaka, our delegation will highlight what makes PEI unique and competitive. The Island’s participation in this Atlantic initiative is about more than showcasing what we produce individually and collectively; it is about creating more opportunities, strengthening relationships, and growing shared prosperity with partners in South Korea and Japan,” added the Honourable Darlene Compton, Prince Edward Island Minister of Economic Development, Innovation and Trade.
For Atlantic Canada, this isn’t just about selling products overseas. It’s about creating lasting partnerships, embedding regional industries in global supply chains, and writing the next chapter of the region’s international trade story.
