THE TASMANIAN government is to lead a trade mission to New Zealand as part of its plan to grow and diversify its economic opportunities, according to acting minister for state development Roger Jaensch.
“New Zealand is one of our most important trading partners, with annual exports already valued at about $100 million, and the trade mission – Tasmania’s first since the COVID-19 pandemic first hit in early 2020 – will showcase everything our State has to offer and further grow our cooperative trading relationship,” Mr Jaensch said.
“The trade mission will be led by the premier and will take place from 31 July 2022, spanning across four days. It will cover the main centres of Auckland and Wellington, along with visiting the Tasman Nelson region to explore new trade and investment opportunities.”
The trade mission will look at opportunities for growth in several sectors, including advanced manufacturing, defence, food, agribusiness, energy, and our world-class tourism industry.
“There is no doubt that Tasmania has what the world wants, and this will further build closer trading ties with New Zealand – a move that will be bolstered by the recommencement of Hobart – Auckland direct flights in early July,” Mr Jaensch said.
“An initiative of our newly released New Zealand Integrated Trade Strategy, the Tasmanian New Zealand Trade Mission is a key part of meeting our overall international trade target of $15 billion by 2050.
“This New Zealand strategy aligns with the Tasmanian Government’s priorities of building trade in key markets, showcasing Tasmania in priority markets, supporting trade logistics and market access, and building capabilities of Tasmanian businesses to grow exports.”
