MADISON, WI (WTAQ) - Governor Scott Walker will make his first overseas trade mission in April.

Officials announced Thursday afternoon that the Republican governor will go to China, to encourage several types of businesses to buy Wisconsin products. They included advanced manufacturers, food processors, and clean energy and water companies.

Walker will be joined by staffers from the state Agriculture Department and the state’s Economic Development Corporation. He’s also inviting business leaders from the targeted fields to come along.

The trade mission to China will take place April 12th through 21st. It will include stops in Beijing, Shanghai, Hefei, and Harbin.

Walker did not make any foreign trips during his first two years in office, while he was embroiled by protests over his bill to limit public union bargaining – and a resulting effort to recall him.

The governor has visited other states to promote economic development.