Tasmanian exports buck national trend

Tasmania’s international exports have again topped $6 billion, with strong growth across food, agriculture, seafood, resources and other key sectors helping drive the State’s trade performance to the front of the pack.

Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, said the latest Tasmanian Trade Scorecard was released the day after the State recorded the strongest business confidence in the nation.

“Tasmania saw an increase by 1.45 per cent in 2024-25, significantly outperforming the national result, which declined by 4.3 per cent,” Minister Barnett said.

“Exceeding $6 billion in exports is a significant achievement, particularly against a backdrop of global uncertainty and softer demand in some markets

“While Tasmania has a strong reputation for premium food, agriculture and seafood products, our export economy is increasingly diverse.

“We are seeing significant opportunities across advanced manufacturing, maritime, defence, minerals and other high-value industries.

“The reopening of Copper Mines Tasmania in Queenstown demonstrates the confidence that exists in Tasmania’s minerals and export potential.

“Our advanced manufacturing businesses have secured $190 million in new defence-related contracts, supporting 49 new jobs.

“These are the types of high-value opportunities we need to build on, creating jobs, attracting investment and strengthening Tasmania’s role in Australia’s strategic industries.”

The Tasmanian Government is helping exporters take advantage of emerging opportunities.

“Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is backing our manufacturers, exporters and primary industries to diversify their markets, strengthening their export capability and positioning Tasmania to take advantage of emerging opportunities,” Minister Barnett said.

“Earlier this year, we launched the Tasmanian Trade Strategy 2030, developed with industry and for industry, as the next evolution of our trade agenda.

“Through targeted trade missions, market engagement and industry partnerships, we are backing Tasmanian businesses to grow international trade and deliver on our ambition to grow exports to $15 billion by 2050.”

The Trade Scorecard 2024-25 is available at trade.tas.gov.au.