Alberta's trade minister is planning to visit China twice this year to cement trade ties.

The minister's efforts are part of concerted efforts to reduce the province's reliance on the United States, which has become highly unpredictable under Donald Trump's presidency.

China still has a thirst for Alberta's oil reserves, but the minister, Deron Bilous, says that the relations between the China and the province are evolving in a way aligned to Premier Rachael Notley's aim of moving the province away from its dependence on an unstable oil and gas sector.

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According to Bilous, Alberta's high-quality food and travel experiences are in high demand among China's growing middle class.

The minister added that his planned discussions with China have been necessitated by the sense of uncertainty around US President Trump and his trade agenda.

"Without knowing what direction the Trump administration will go, China is interested in reaching out more to us," Bilous told Canadian media, adding that he is planning to visit China twice this year, because it is critical to have the discussions face to face.

Alberta has made China a priority this year, and China has reciprocated, with three trade delegations expected to visit Alberta this year.

Jia Wang, the acting director of the China Institute at the University of Alberta, says that while foreign companies can find it challenging to break into China due to the complex regulatory barriers, Alberta's close relationship with China has enjoyed some success.

"The government is building a support network to help companies seize those opportunities when they come," Wang said.

Wang added that with Trump now the US President, Canadian provinces such as Alberta are under more pressure to look beyond America for a reliable partner.

Tagschina, Canada, Alberta, US, donald trump