Fuel security front and centre of upcoming trade and investment mission

A Tasmanian delegation, headed by Deputy Premier, Guy Barnett, will head to Singapore and Indonesia this week, with a focus on strengthening Tasmania’s fuel security, fertiliser supply and promoting key Tasmanian exports.

Deputy Premier Barnett said in addition to strengthening critical trade relationships and helping Tasmanian companies build new business relationships, this trade and investment mission will be an important opportunity to advocate for Tasmania’s best interests.

“A key focus of this mission will be engaging with government and industry partners on energy and fuel security,” the Deputy said.

“We are continuing work to establish an on-island strategic fuel reserve, and in Singapore I will be meeting directly with senior Government officials in relation to fuel security.

“I’ll also be having important conversations on building more resilient supply chains for essential inputs such as fertilisers, including an anticipated meeting with fertiliser giant PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur in Indonesia.”

Deputy Premier Barnett will be joined by a 20-strong business delegation which will represent a broad cross section of Tasmania’s economy, including tourism, education, advanced manufacturing and defence, creative industries, aviation, and investment attraction.

“The mission will include high-level meetings with government and industry, promoting Tasmania at a tourism showcase in Singapore and delivering a Tasmanian Stand at the largest Food & Hospitality Asia expo with more than 80,000 attendees expected,” the Deputy said.

“These markets already have strong demand for our premium food and beverage products, tourism experiences, education services, and advanced manufacturing and defence capability - sectors critical to Tasmania’s economy that we are helping to grow further through this trade mission.

“Indonesia is a key driver of Tasmania’s international trade, ranking as Tasmania’s third-largest trading partner with exports of $351.84 million, while Singapore is not only Tasmania’s twelfth-largest export destination but also a strategic gateway to Asia, making it a key partner for increasing trade and investment.

“This mission sends a clear message that Tasmania is open for business, aligned with national priorities, and ready to trade and strengthen our strategic relationships with Singapore and Indonesia.”