New Jakarta Trade office to strengthen ties

Jakarta: Queensland businesses will benefit from a boost in trade with South East Asia following the official opening of the new Jakarta Trade office.

Treasurer and Minister for Trade Tim Nicholls said the State’s already strong relationship with Indonesia would grow even further with the Trade and Investment office set to make a key contribution to growing local export and investment opportunities across the region.

“The opening of this office is further demonstration of our commitment to helping Queensland businesses succeed on the world stage, and bringing in even more trade to our State,” Mr Nicholls said.

“With Queensland’s two-way merchandise trade with Indonesia valued at $2.3 billion last financial year, maintaining and further strengthening our ties is an important part of opening up business opportunities now and creating the jobs of the future.

“There are also important avenues for substantial growth in areas such as financial, education and other services where we have established markets with room to expand.

“Only an LNP Government with its strong plan and strong team can maximize the opportunities for Queensland businesses in uncertain times.

“Queensland’s appeal as an investment destination and place for getting business done has been enhanced by the seamless G20 meeting we have just hosted and it’s important that we continue to foster links in pivotal countries within the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) region.”

Mr Nicholls said endless business, trade and investment opportunities would be unlocked through the new Jakarta Trade office, including our state’s world-class food and agribusiness, and education and training industries.

“Queensland’s food and agriculture sector is valued at more than $14 billion per year and is our State’s second-biggest export earner, contributing more than $13 billion to the state's economy,” he said.

“While Labor has no plan for Queensland, we are focused on growing the economy.”

The Treasurer is currently leading a Singapore and Indonesia trade mission with Queensland business representatives, focused on creating jobs and business opportunities.

The trade delegation will capitalise on Queensland’s achievements in hosting hugely successful G20 leadership and finance meetings last month.

[Ends] 10 December 2014

Media contact: Treasurer’s office 3719 7200

Audio available at - https://soundcloud.com/treasurerqld/opening-tiq-jakarta-office