Trade specialists to help Northside region boost exports

An export seminar will be held in Boondall 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 Caboolture/Northside region to meet State Government trade specialists at the seminar and find out more about export opportunities in China, Hong Kong and Southern China,’’ Ms Bligh said.

Member for Nudgee Neil Roberts urged Northside businesses to come and find out how they can maximise their export potential with China.

On Wednesday, October 11, Queensland Government Trade and Investment Office Commissioner in Shanghai, Zijian Zhang, will share his first-hand market insights on China with exporters at the seminar.

Mr Zhang said China, which is Queensland’s fourth largest market, is now an easier place for Smart State companies to do business.

"Queensland’s exports to the People’s Republic of China topped $2.7 billion in 2005-06 and China’s continued regulatory reform and meteoric economic rise is generating a raft of export opportunities for Queensland businesses.

"These include mining services and equipment, planning and design, water treatment, education and training services as well as beef, horticulture, marine and infrastructure projects in the lead up to the 2008 Olympic Games,’’ Mr Zhang said.

The Queensland Government Trade and Investment Commissioner for Hong Kong and Southern China, Simon Lee, will also be present to share his export market knowledge with businesses attending 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 technology.

“With Hong Kong and Southern China as major gateways to China, I urge local businesses to come and find out how they can maximise their export potential,’’ he said.

Mr Roberts said the export seminar is 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 the Government’s key Smart State goals including boosting economic development and creating jobs,” he said.

“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 Roberts said.

The seminar will be held at The Cocos Room, Virginia Palms International Hotel, corner Sandgate & Zillmere Roads, Boondall, on Wednesday, October 11, from 9:30am to 1:00pm. The cost inclusive of a networking lunch is $22 (GST incl)

Media contact:

Deputy Premier’s Office – 3224 6900