Mackay seminar promotes exporting to North Asia

Mackay companies will have an opportunity to hear from export experts at a local workshop hosted by former Mackay Mayor, now Trade Queensland's Special Representative for Japan, Korea and the Philippines, Julie Boyd.

Ms Boyd said the Doing business with North Asia seminar, to be held in Mackay on 27 March, will provide updates on business opportunities in Japan and Korea presented by market specialists and export advisors, as well as additional export information for Mackay businesses.

"Exporting is a vital contributor to Queensland's economy, with merchandise goods exports worth $35.3 billion last financial year," Ms Boyd said. "Service exports from Queensland, including international education, were worth a further $8.76 billion in 2007-08.

"International education itself contributed $1.889 billion to Queensland's economy with Japan and South Korea continuing to record strong student enrolment numbers. In December 2008 there were 4096 students from Japan and 8590 from Korea enrolled in Queensland's education institutions.

"The Mackay seminar is an opportunity to hear directly from Trade Queensland's market specialists about export and investment opportunities and strategies. Additionally, there will be an opportunity for local businesspeople to network with other companies currently operating in, or considering exploring these markets.

"In addition to receiving an update, attendees at the seminar will hear from Mr Doug Bishop, Chairman of the Sea Freight Council of Queensland.

"Business representatives will also have the opportunity to discuss specific export issues and challenges that other companies have encountered in accessing these markets with representatives from Trade Queensland's North-Asia team.

"In these tough economic times, I urge businesses exporting, or considering exporting to these key overseas markets for Queensland to attend this valuable seminar," Ms Boyd said.

In 2007- 08, Japan was Queensland's largest market for merchandise goods, receiving more than $9 billion worth of Queensland products. Major exports to Japan included coal ($4.6 billion), meat ($1.4 billion) and manufactured goods ($832 million). Korea was Queensland's 2nd largest market for merchandise goods, receiving more than $3.7 billion worth of Queensland products. Major exports to Korea included coal ($1.4 billion), meat ($822 million) and metal ores ($663 million).

Doing business with North Asiawill be held in Mackay on 27 March. To register or for further information contact Trade Queensland's Mackay-based Export Advisor, Diane Anstee on 07 4967 1078 or email diane.anstee@trade.qld.gov.au .

Last updated 21 April 2009