Trade specialists to help Mackay region boost exports

An export seminar will be held in Mackay next week to help local manufacturers and businesses expand their international sales base, Acting Premier Anna Bligh said today.

“During Export Week 2006 we are inviting business people in the Mackay region to meet State Government trade specialists at the seminar and find out more about export opportunities in Hong Kong, Southern China and India,’’ Ms Bligh said.

Member for Mackay and Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin urged Mackay businesses to come and find out how they can maximise their export potential with the major China gateways of Southern China and Hong Kong.

On Tuesday, October 10, Queensland Government Trade and Investment Office Commissioner in Hong Kong and Southern China, Simon Lee, will share his expert market knowledge of the region with businesses at the seminar.

Mr Lee said strong consumer spending in Hong Kong and Southern China has led to increased demand for high quality products and services, particularly processed food, and information and communications technologies.

Bangalore-based Queensland Trade and Investment Commissioner for India, David Belham, will also be present to share his first-hand knowledge of how India’s fast-growing economy, growing at an annual rate of 8 per cent, is opening up as an exciting export market for Queensland companies.

Queensland exports to India, including mineral resources, and aviation almost topped $3 billion in 2005-06.

“Opportunities abound in aviation, mining services and equipment, tourism development and in India’s film and television industry in Bollywood,’’ Mr Belham said.

Mr Mulherin said the export seminars are part of Queensland’s annual Export Week, which celebrates the important contribution Queensland export companies make to the local and national economy through job creation and increased prosperity in the community.

“A thriving export sector is critical to achieving my Government’s key Smart State goals including boosting economic development and creating jobs,” he said.

“We are aggressively pursuing export opportunities for Queensland businesses as well as investing in the expansion of our export capacity and capabilities.

“Our hard work is paying dividends. In 2005-06 Queensland’s overseas goods exports increased by 34.2 per cent, from $26.4 billion to $35.4 billion, over the previous year,’’ Mr Mulherin said.

The seminar will be held at Windmill Reception Centre, 5 Highway Plaza, Bruce Highway, North Mackay on Tuesday, October 10, from 7am to 9am. The cost inclusive of breakfast is $22 (GST incl).

RSVP by 6 October 2006.

Media contact

Deputy Premier’s Office – 3234 6900