Mildura efforts spark wider interest in China

11 April 2008

The Sunraysia Mallee Economic Development Board’s efforts and positive outcomes in China have attracted the attention and interest of other regional areas in Victoria.

At the 2008 China Kunming Import & Export Commodities Fair in June this year, Horsham Rural City Council, Campaspe Shire Council and Greater Shepparton City Council will be participating alongside the Sunraysia Mallee Economic Development Board (SMEDB). Businesses from these regions will also be attending the trade fair.

The Board has created significant opportunities in regional trade, and other regional areas are keen to be part of a coordinated push into China and other Asian countries.

A recent review of the Board’s international projects concluded that the positive outcomes and opportunities available are an important step in promoting the region and facilitating trade for local businesses.

Andrew Millen, CEO of SMEDB said “This is just one example of how the regions are working together for positive results in regional Victoria.”

“The trade fair in China will see Horsham, the newest member of the Chinese partnership, enter negotiations for a sister city arrangement,” said Mr Millen.

The trade initiatives with China resulted from an initial visit to the 2004 China Kunming Import & Export Commodities Fair by Chairman, John Irwin and former Deputy Chairman, Dane Huxley.

At the invitation of the Chinese, the Board participated in the 2005 fair with one exhibition booth which grew to three booths in 2006.

Mildura’s success at the fair prompted Campaspe Shire Council to collaborate with SMEDB in 2007, providing exhibition space of nine booths for the two regions, and also attendance by the Mayor and CEO of Greater Shepparton City Council.

“The China Kunming Import & Export Commodities Fair is the largest and best opportunity to market your business in South West China and the Asian market,” Mr Millen added.

Businesses looking to export to Asia have the opportunity to participate in a delegation to the China Kunming Import & Export Commodities Fair on 6 – 10 June, 2008 organised by SMEDB.

This is a facilitated and supported opportunity to visit the Chinese market and set up meetings to discuss distribution of your product into China and further into Asia.

Businesses can register their interest in participating and receive an information pack by contacting SMEDB on 5018 8186.

END OF MEDIA RELEASE

For further information please contact the Sunraysia Mallee Economic Development Board office.

Camille Mansell

Phone: 03 5018 8188

Mobile: 0437 391 343