Queensland says “Irasshaimase” to visiting Japanese farmers

A delegation of Japanese food growers and buyers, announced by the Premier last month, has touched down in Brisbane as the Palaszczuk Government continues to encourage growth and investment in our food export industry.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said it was a pleasure to host the visitors at the Brisbane Markets.

“Queensland is home to some of the most delicious food in the world, so to show off some of our finest produce to our friends from Japan was a great honour,” Mr Furner said.

“Developing our $20 billion agricultural industry is one of the top priorities of the Palaszczuk Government.

“These ties are invaluable in linking our farmers with consumers overseas to help grow our export trade with burgeoning Asian markets.”

The visit by the Japanese delegation comes hot on the heels of Premier and Minister for Trade Annastacia Palaszczuk’s visit to Japan in May.

The Premier announced the delegation during a visit to a retailer selling Queensland peanuts in Tokyo.

Mr Furner said the delegation would visit other prime growing regions around the state.

“Scenic Rim, Gatton and Bowen are all on the agenda during their trip to Queensland and will see some of our best produce and

Since 2015, more than 240 containers of Queensland fruit and vegetables have made their way onto dinner plates across Japan.

Queensland carrots, zucchini, watermelon, beetroot and nuts have proven popular with the Japanese market.

Last month Mr Furner announced six diverse Queensland food companies had been awarded first round funding as part of the $1.3 million-dollar Growing Queensland’s Food Exports program.

The grants assist Queensland companies to build business capacity and grow opportunities for export in the high-end Asian market, including Japan and Singapore.

Bundaberg’s Macadamias Australia and Burdekin’s VFPlus Pty Ltd were among the producers to receive round one funding.

The next round of funding is expected to open for applicants in July.

MEDIA: Brock Taylor – 0427 018 178

Note: Images available from this morning’s visit.