World-leading Queensland businesses, international investment opportunities and emerging technologies will be showcased as Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk embarks on a trade mission to the United Arab Emirates, Germany and the United Kingdom.
The Premier departed arrived in Dubai yesterday on the first stop on her 11-day trade mission, which started with a meeting with Dubai-based Kuwaiti hotel group Action Hotels.
"In my first year as Trade Minister, the value of Queensland's goods exports rose by $12.3 billion to $82.8 billion," the Premier said.
"In the 12 months to February 2019 our merchandise exports were worth $83.13 billion – more than New South Wales and Victoria combined.
"This trade mission is about opening the door to increased investment and export opportunities for more Queensland businesses, especially in areas where we have an international competitive advantage.
"I'm excited to meet with our Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Middle East and see firsthand how ground-breaking Queensland companies are making their mark in the UAE's design, transport and food security sectors."
In the United Arab Emirates, the Premier will tour of Dubai South, an emerging urban precinct which will host Dubai Expo 2020 – the first world expo to be held in the Middle East.
The Premier will travel to Germany to continue discussions with defence contractor Rheinmetall, which is set to deliver the next generation of Australian Army vehicles from its Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Ipswich.
"Queensland is Rheinmetall's Australian base – the company's largest presence outside of Germany," the Premier said.
"Last year Rheinmetall secured the LAND 400 Phase Two contract – a $5 billion deal which will transform our State's defence manufacturing sector.
"This trade mission provides the opportunity to advance our work with Rheinmetall on their bid for the $15 billion LAND 400 Phase 3 project and the new opportunities for Queensland businesses to support their local operations."
In Berlin, the Premier will host an investor roundtable with executives from multinational companies, top international investors and those looking to explore opportunities in Queensland's growth industries.
The Premier will host a second investor roundtable in London for UK-based investors and will address a Queensland Innovation Forum promoting the State's innovative technology sectors and supporting pioneering Queensland start-ups.
While in London, the Premier will also meet with executives from major production companies to secure more international projects for Queensland's screen industry.
The Premier returns to Queensland on April 15. Deputy Premier Jackie Trade will serve as Acting Premier while the Premier is overseas.
