Tasmania is continuing to capitalise on growth opportunities for our products in the Chinese market, with our state shortlisted as one of the world's Best Potential Wine Region's by a leading Chinese wine magazine.
Pinor Sommelier is a professional wine magazine embracing 150 Chinese sommeliers and will hold its annual Sommelier Night on 8 March 2015 in Shanghai.
It is one of the most recognised wine publications in China with a circulation of 370,000 copies per issue in 20 cities, including four major wine markets: Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai and Guangzhou.
Tasmania is increasingly being applauded for the outstanding quality of its wine around the world, and this recognition by the influential magazine is a great endorsement.
Following last year's visit to Tasmania by the Chinese President Xi Jinping and the hugely successful TasInvest forum, there is an unprecedented level of investment interest in our state from China, our largest trading partner.
The Hodgman Liberal Government's TasInvest summit saw a number of investors tour Tasmanian vineyards and the Government, led by the Coordinator-General, is assisting industry to follow up opportunities created by these visits.
Wine Tasmania CEO Sheralee Davies said Tasmania has taken a focused approach to lifting recognition and demand for its wines as well as encouraging visitation to Tasmania.
"In May 2014, Tasmania hosted five key wine media representatives from China, which resulted in major features in leading wine publications," Ms Davies said.
"This positive coverage has certainly bolstered the awareness and reputation of Tasmanian wine in the Chinese market.
"Tasmania has also hosted influential trade representatives and local producers are increasingly participating in key international wine shows.
"Over the past five years, the vineyard area in Tasmania has increased by 20%, and continuing to build the international reputation and demand for Tasmanian wines is seen as a key opportunity over the coming years."