Almost a year after Cathay Pacific Cargo started its freighter service to Portland, Oregon Governor Kate Brown flew to Hong Kong on the first leg of her Asian trade mission to promote foreign investment in Oregon, the state’s produce and its tourism.

The delegation visited Cathay Pacific’s headquarters and also toured the Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal, which handles the thrice-weekly freighter, although two weekly services were added in the summer to cope with extra shipments as a consequence of the cherry harvest. The flights are an important link for Oregon’s agricultural exports, with live Dungeness crabs and cut greens also among the perishable goods that are shipped on the freighter.

Talking about the freighter service, Governor Brown said: ‘It’s enabling us to get very good Oregon products from cherry to crab to market expeditiously so the people of Asia can enjoy them.’

Governor Brown said: ‘Trade missions abroad drive jobs and economic growth here in Oregon. I am returning to Asia to strengthen the relationships we’ve built as I continue to find new ways to grow Oregon’s economy, promote our booming agricultural market, and support jobs for Oregonians throughout the state. I am proud to share our uniquely Oregon products with the rest of the world.’

The Governor’s office added that Hong Kong is a key and expanding export market for Oregon, while Japan is one of Oregon’s largest foreign investors. It added: ‘Oregon’s food and agriculture products, along with notable apparel and outdoor recreation companies, are finding new opportunities in growing markets throughout Asia.’