New trade commissioners promote Queensland export and investment

Queensland has filled key offshore roles with the announcement of new trade commissioners for Korea and South Asia.

Premier and Minister for Trade Annastacia Palaszczuk said Queensland’s Trade Commissioners lead our presence around the world and fulfil a critical role in our continued recovery efforts from the impacts of COVID-19.

“Every day, commissioners and their staff in 12 major markets globally are busy promoting Queensland products and services to their local market and showcasing Queensland as the right place to invest,” the Premier said.

“I’m pleased to announce Ryan Freer is the new Trade and Investment Commissioner for Korea and will be based in the Seoul office.

“The Republic of Korea is one of the largest economies in Asia and currently Queensland’s fourth largest export market, valued at nearly $7.0 billion for the year to April 2021.

“Korea, a major investor in Queensland’s minerals and renewable energy sectors, is a global leader in research and development intensity, digital displays and semiconductors and is home to global brands Samsung, LG and POSCO.”

The Premier also announced Abhinav Bhatia as the Senior Trade Commissioner for South Asia to be based in Bengaluru, India.

“India is currently Queensland’s third largest export market, valued at slightly over $7 billion for the year to April 2021, driven by coal, agriculture, mining equipment, technology and services, and international education,” the Premier said.

“I wish both Mr Freer and Mr Bhatia well in their new roles and hope they can deliver some great export success in those markets for our Queensland businesses.”

Ryan Freer is currently New Zealand Trade Commissioner for Thailand, Myanmar, Lao People’s Republic and Cambodia and has held the same position in Korea.

Mr Freer was born in New Zealand and grew up in Brisbane, studying at Griffith University, and has worked in Asia for more than a decade.

He replaces Trade and Investment Commissioner Daniel Kim who returned to Queensland after accepting a senior corporate role.

Abhinav Bhatia was Director – South Asia for Enterprise Ireland and has more than 15 years’ experience in international business, trade, innovation and investment attraction. He has also worked as Trade Commissioner with the Consulate General of Canada.

Mr Bhatia replaces Trade and Investment Commissioner Gitesh Agarwal who has taken up a position with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council.

Mr Bhatia started in the role this week and Mr Freer on July 12.

Trade and Investment Queensland is the state’s dedicated global business agency with a network of regional and international offices.

ENDS

Media contact:

Greg Sweetnam (Trade and Investment Queensland) – 0447 972 744