Tasmania’s world-class fresh produce will be flown from Hobart to Hong Kong, via a stop at Melbourne, thanks to a seasonal freight service by Cathay Pacific from December to February.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Guy Barnett said over 40 tonnes of valuable local produce would be transported in each flight.
“This could include Tasmanian seafood, including live lobster, salmon, live eels and abalone,” Minister Barnett said.
“Fresh produce, including cherries, strawberries and raspberries are also available to be freighted over on these flights, as well as chilled dairy and meat.
“It’s fantastic news and another vote of confidence in our world-class premium produce that is highly sought after right across the world.”
Minister for Trade Jeremy Rockliff said the establishment of the service will be a significant boost for Tasmanian exporters.
“This provides access through Hong Kong to a wide range of connecting international destinations in South East and Northern Asia,” Minister Rockliff said.
“We are committed to helping our producers and exporters as they adjust to the COVID business environment and this will help us as we work towards our target of growing the value of our exports to $15 billion a year by 2050."
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson said Cathay Pacific entering into the service provides the opportunity to test the market capacity for potential future international freighter services from Hobart to Asia.
“This international freighter flight will occur up to three times per week from December 16, 2020, to February 10, 2021,” Minister Ferguson said.
The service will be operating by Boeing 777-300, which is a passenger aircraft that Cathay Pacific has converted for freighter use during COVID-19.
More Media Releases from Guy Barnett
More Media Releases from the Minister for Primary Industries and Water