Trade mission builds relationships to grow exports and local jobs

A Queensland trade mission to Hong Kong and Chongqing has exposed businesses from the Southern Downs and Kingaroy regions to significant opportunities.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner, who is leading the delegation, said businesses from the region were grabbing those opportunities with both hands at HOFEX, a major international trade event.

“We’ve got exhibitors here from right across Queensland, from out as far north as Townsville and south to Goondiwindi,” Mr Furner said.

“What people are asking for in Hong Kong is what we have on offer – clean, green safe produce.

“Considering Hong Kong imports 95% of its food Queensland is in prime position only eight or nine hours flight away.

“We are in the box seat making sure we are the winners here providing that food into Hong Kong.”

Jason Kinsella from Murgon’s Moffatdale Ridge Wines said the company’s Moffatdale Verdelho was the perfect wine to enjoy with Queensland seafood, but also for the Hong Kong market.

“The opportunities it brings for our business but also for our region is really exciting,” he said.

Josh Gadischke of Proteco Oils in Kingaroy said his company was looking to distribute its range of tree nut oils more widely in Asia.

“We do have some outlets at the moment, some small distribution, but it’s such a big market and we see a lot of future opportunity.”

Angus Woods from Goodiwindi-based Human Bean said participation in the HOFEX trade event in Hong Kong would help the business grow its existing exports by building its brand.

“We’re looking to come up here and re-emphasise that with those who have shown interest in the past,” Mr Woods said.

Mr Furner said he expected the trade mission would help the 18 participating businesses to grow exports, and that meant more jobs in a stronger Queensland economy.

“The Palaszczuk Government has a proud record of creating more than 192,000 jobs and we are nowhere near done yet.

“That’s what Labor governments do. We create jobs. We back workers and back businesses to innovate and grow, and we forge the relationships in global markets to increase the opportunities for success.”

ENDS

Footage for download, including overlay: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hiabmj5rs2okwxf/AAByl5wlUDmvIx9oP8IZU1Hma?dl=0

Media contact:           Ron Goodman            0427 781 920