International buyers are back in the South West exploring trade opportunities directly with local producers as part of an arrangement to give local businesses a chance to expand their markets.
Trade representatives from Asia and the Middle East are this week meeting with South West premium food, wine and beverage producers as part of a wider visit that also takes in Perth and the Great Southern.
The visit marks the first inbound trade mission since the international border reopened, with representatives from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan among those scouting for products.
Trade showcases, industry dinners and destination tourism experiences are among the activities on the itinerary for the Margaret River, Southern Forests and Geographe wine regions.
The South West Development Commission (SWDC) is contracted by the Australian Trade Commission to deliver Austrade’s TradeStart services across the South West, Great Southern and Goldfields-Esperance regions.
SWDC chief executive Mellisa Teede said the inbound trade mission provided an opportunity for local businesses to connect with decision-makers in international markets without leaving home.
“This is an opportunity to showcase what our region has to offer the world including food and beverage products for the purpose of facilitating trade,” Ms Teede said.
“While virtual tastings have proven successful in achieving sales for local businesses, there has been an appetitive for trade representatives to return to the region – everyone we are working with on this is excited.”
The Taste Western Australia Premium Food and Beverage Buyer’s Mission has been made possible through a joint arrangement between the South West Development Commission and Great Southern Development Commission in partnership with Invest and Trade WA, Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA.
