AgInvest forum to further Queensland agriculture

Published Tuesday, 11 March, 2014 at 08:36 AM

JOINT STATEMENT

Treasurer and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Tim Nicholls

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
The Honourable John McVeigh

Growing agriculture as one of the four pillars of the economy will be the main area of discussion as hundreds of Queensland industry members gather in Brisbane for a Government-led forum today.

Treasurer and Minister for Trade Tim Nicholls said the Queensland AgInvest Forum would showcase a range of international opportunities to more than 200 representatives of Queensland’s agriculture industry.

“As one of the nation’s leading states for agriculture production, it’s vital that Queensland industry members are kept informed and connected with investment opportunities from around the globe,” Mr Nicholls said.

“With the forecast value of Queensland’s farm gate production and processing valued at $14.8 billion for 2013-14, the importance of the agricultural sector as one of the four pillars of the economy cannot be overstated.

“Agriculture was ignored by Labor, but we are returning to focus to this key industry.

“AgInvest offers a huge range of opportunities to collaborate with our international partners, helping the Government to support this major industry and cementing our place as a major global producer.”

Mr Nicholls said forum participants would hear from major agricultural investment companies on investment processes, corporate structures and project valuations, as well as updates on Queensland’s place amongst its international competitors.

“This forum, presented by Trade and Investment Queensland is about growing agriculture, as we promised, by working proactively with the business community and relevant government agencies to help international investors access information and connect to Queensland companies,” he said.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh will address the AgInvest forum, reiterating the Government’s goal to double agriculture by 2040.

“Queensland has a strong economy, clean environment, and is located close to the growth markets of Asia,” Mr McVeigh said. 

“An increasing global population will be a significant driver of demand for food and fibre products.

“Queensland is ideally positioned to take advantage of this opportunity and the State Government is committed to attracting investment into the agriculture sector to help achieve its goal.”

For more information the Queensland AgInvest Forum, visit www.export.qld.gov.au.

[ENDS] 11 March 2014

Media contact: Anna Hilton 0408 191 192