The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to seizing every opportunity to strengthen Tasmania’s economic and cultural ties with China.
Last year’s visit by the President of China coupled with the signing of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement have created unprecedented opportunities for our state.
Our friendship will be strengthened during Premier Will Hodgman’s current trade and investment mission, and when he has the honour of again meeting with the Chinese President Xi next week.
Our Government is committed to turning interest into investment and pursing every opportunity.
Today’s Inaugural Australia China BusinessWeek 2015 is about ensuring Tasmanian businesses have the same opportunity to take advantage of the fastest growing economy in the world.
Tasmania is already a step ahead of the country, we have incredible brand recognition in China and there is a desire for our premium, fresh and safe produce.
But for many businesses, farmers and exporters it can be a daunting new market. Through BusinessWeek, experts in trade, investment and marketing are sharing their insight into how to make products more appealing in the Chinese market.
The growth in demand for key produce is exponential. Milk product exports has risen from $61 million in 2012 to $151 million in 2014, and in the same three years the value of cherry sales rose from $8 million to $24 million.
The best is yet to come, with our friendship with China and the FTA to further transform the attractiveness of Tasmanian exports into the Chinese market.
The BusinessWeek is also another chance to showcase all that is special about Tasmania, with more than 100 business representatives from across Australia meeting in our state.
In yet another exceptional event for Tasmania we also have Senior Officials from the Fujian Department of Commerce who are attending BusinessWeek and taking the opportunity to tour wineries and farms.