AN award-winning Monmouthshire cider company will be one of 16 Welsh businesses embarking on a Welsh Government trade mission to Japan.

Economy Secretary Ken Skates will be leading the trip next month to strengthen Wales' bonds with the country.

During his visit the Mr Skates and his party will meet key Japanese companies in Osaka and Tokyo and will take part in the official opening of a high profile British fair at Hankyu department stores, which feature many Welsh products.

Among the companies from across Wales attending will be Monmouth-based Apple County Cider Co, which recently became first producer to win back-to-back top prizes at the prestigious Great Taste awards.

The company, which is run by Ben and Steph Culpin, were approached by the Welsh Government after the producer struck a deal toe export some of their prestigious product to Japan.

Steph Culpin, who will be going on the trip, said: "We were invited to come on the trip because we already had business connections in Japan, and the government of course wanted us to build on that.

"We obviously feel very privileged to be a part of this trade mission and we're very excited about the prospect."

According to Mrs Culpin, the British fair at the Hankyu stores will include tasting sessions of several of their products during their stay from October 8 to October 15.

She added: "Japan has one of the largest economies in the world, and with the interest in British and Welsh products, this could be a great opportunity for our company."

Speaking last week, Mr Skates underlined the 'importance' of strengthening ties overseas following the EU referendum, particularly in Japan.

Around 50 Japanese-owned companies including Fujitsu, Hitachi, Panasonic, Sharp, Sony and Toyota are operating in Wales, cumulatively employing more than 6,000 people.

Speaking last week, Mr Skates underlined the 'importance' of strengthening ties overseas following the EU referendum, particularly in Japan.

"Wales has a proud history of trading with Japan, with Welsh exports to the country standing at over £290m last year alone," said Mr Skates.

"It is also a growing market with our exports to Japan in 2015 having increased by 19 per cent on the previous year.

"Japan also has a long standing and proven commitment to Wales as an overseas investor, with links dating back to the 1970s.

“My visit to Japan and the trade mission provide the perfect opportunity to strengthen our already thriving friendship and partnership with Japan."