Three agriculture export specialists have been appointed by the Victorian government to help agribusinesses establish more global trade pathways.
The new agriculture-focused specialists will provide in-market support from Victorian government Trade and Investment Offices in China, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates.
“Our specialists will provide dedicated agriculture export support in key markets so that our premium food and fibre can be made available for more people around the world to enjoy, creating even more jobs and opportunities for Victorians,” minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said.
In Kuala Lumpur, in-market specialist Ian Thompson will provide insights to Victorian agribusinesses looking to grow their exports and diversify their markets in South-East Asia. Thompson will work to promote quality Victorian food and agricultural produce in these markets.
“There is a significant opportunity in South-East Asian markets and the demand for quality Victorian food and agricultural produce is high,” Thompson said.
“After the pandemic it will be a critical time to maintain and develop high-quality export markets.”
Dubai-based in-market specialist Emma Page has a mandate for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. She will support Victorian agribusinesses in responding to the strong demand for premium food and beverage products coming from the MENA market.
“Populations across the Middle East and North Africa are growing with highly educated young millennials who want access to the latest excellent food offerings from around the globe – and that’s where Victoria comes in,” Page said.
Beijing-based in-market specialist Davis Tao Xu will deliver tailored advice to Victorian businesses in Victoria’s biggest food and fibre export destination. The state’s food and fibre exports to China were valued at $4.7 billion in 2019-20.
“China is a very dynamic place to do business with a lot of opportunities for agribusiness,” Tao Xu said.
“I look forward to providing an expert’s view to the latest developments and trends from the market.”
Agriculture Victoria’s in-market specialists are funded through the $5 million Pathways to Export Program. The program is a four-year Agriculture Strategy initiative, which is dedicated to creating export opportunities for Victorian agribusinesses.
For more information, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/pathwaystoexport.