VICTORIA -- British Columbia's premier is heading to China, South Korea and Japan later this month on a 10-day trade mission.

John Horgan says the trip is aimed at expanding the province's economic ties with three of its largest trading partners.

Horgan will promote bilateral relationships between British Columbia and key government and business leaders.

Bruce Ralston, minister of jobs, trade and technology, and George Chow, minister of state for trade, will travel with the premier to all three countries.

Lisa Beare, minister of tourism, arts and culture, will travel to China.

The trip begins Jan. 20 and will be the premier's first visit to Asia since the NDP formed a government last summer.

Horgan's trip will include speaking engagements and meetings with government and business leaders.

B.C. exported $5.9 billion in goods to China in 2016, making it the province's second largest export market. Japan is B.C.'s third largest trading partner.