Agriculture mission to grow jobs and boost $500 million trade with Vietnam

A three-day trade mission aims to put more Queensland produce on Vietnamese consumers’ plates and generate jobs in the agricultural industry here at home.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the state enjoyed a positive trade and investment relationship with Vietnam.

“Vietnam is Queensland’s fifth-largest agricultural export market valued at more than $500 million, and our exports grew by 21 per cent in 2020-21,” Mr Furner said.

“Total exports to Vietnam were valued at more than $2.4 billion and our imports were valued at $750 million, so it is an important two-way relationship.

“I’m looking forward to meeting with leading importers, distributors and investors to discuss what initiatives we can support that will benefit both Queensland and Vietnam.”

Mr Furner said Queensland was in a strong position to meet the needs of Vietnamese consumers who want high-quality, safe, healthy and delicious food.

“Queensland farmers are renowned for their clean, green produce that tastes great, so it’s no wonder our reputation is growing around the world,” Mr Furner said.

“Our proximity to Asia, our robust food safety systems and our producers who embrace sustainable and ethical farming practices are fundamental to our state’s reputation for premium food.

“We have an opportunity to export even more meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables and value-added food and drinks to the region, which means increased jobs across our agricultural supply chains from farm to consumer.”

Mr Furner said he will take hand-woven baskets featuring unique Queensland designs to present to key stakeholders.

“I first saw these baskets created by Thargomindah artist Jackie Dare went I visited there in 2019, and they make great gifts,” Mr Furner said.

“We have given them to clients on previous trade missions to Indonesia and Singapore and they were very well-received.”

ENDS

Media contact:           Ron Goodman             0427 781 920