- The 'Team Australia' pavilion at the Chinese trade expo is featuring 23 WA agrifood and beverage businesses
- Cook Government supporting export market development and diversification
The Cook Government is supporting Western Australia's agrifood and beverage sector to realise export opportunities in China, at a premier trade exhibition in Shanghai this week.
WA will feature in the Commonwealth Government's 'Team Australia' pavilion at the annual China International Import Expo - which attracts more than 2,900 exhibitors from over 50 countries - to strengthen trade and economic cooperation.
A total of 23 WA businesses are participating, ranging from meat and seafood, to wine, spirits, and honey, as well as lupin snacks and truffles.
The businesses will also tour markets and retailers, as well as attend a networking event to better understand China's operating environment.
China is WA's largest agrifood export market, worth $3 billion in 2022-23, driven largely by rising wheat exports worth $1.7 billion in that year.
The Cook Government continues to support ongoing business engagement with China, while also encouraging market diversification to drive long term benefits to the economy.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"We are working closely with partners across Government and industry, to elevate the profile of WA's agrifood and beverage exporters, and encourage connections with key markets, including China.
"Trade events like the China International Import Expo are important avenues to showcase WA's agrifood and beverage offerings on an international stage.
"I have been working hard to help cultivate export markets for WA agriculture and food, with recent trade missions to Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as meeting inbound delegations from a number of our key markets in South East Asia and the Middle East.
"This is part of the Cook Government's overarching plan to create local jobs, build on WA's economic strengths, and embrace future opportunities."
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
"It is pleasing to see Western Australian seafood showcased at the China International Import Expo. It is a positive step forward for our relationship with a significant trading partner.
"China has been a significant market for WA seafood in the past, and I will continue to work constructively with the Commonwealth, to see our rock lobster trade restored.
"The Cook Government continues to work with industry to explore alternative markets and future opportunities for local businesses and the broader industry, including a major boost to direct Back-of-Boat sales, which has allowed fishermen to increase domestic sales.
"Since the BOB program began in September 2020, it has have become a popular channel for consumers to access locally-caught rock lobster, with more than 207,000 lobsters sold."
