International showcase opportunities for WA produce
Western Australian food and beverage companies will take their produce to new international markets at three upcoming major food trade events.
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman has invited local companies to explore promotional opportunities available in India, Japan and the United States.
“I’m inviting local food and beverage companies, including wine producers, to promote their wares to the world through the WA booth at the International Food Exhibition in New Delhi to be held next month,” Mr Redman said. “The booth will be managed by WA Trade Office staff, who will take inquiries and work with WA companies over the longer term to help them gain a foothold in the Indian market.”
The Minister said that in January, WA would take part in the Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco. ‘Fancy Food Shows’ are North America’s largest food and beverage marketplace for buyers, retailers and distributors.
“In March, we have Foodex Japan in Makuhari, the largest food and beverage trade show in Asia,” he noted. “This annual event attracts up to 90,000 people and is an excellent opportunity for WA producers to explore business opportunities in the lucrative Asian markets.”
“The Department of Agriculture and Food will support local producers with a WA stand to be held jointly with the State Government’s Tokyo Office. Companies can book an individual booth or be part of the WA booth.”
Foodex Japan begins on March 3 and will run for four days.
Mr Redman said trade exhibitions in the past had opened the way for many WA companies to profile their products in the international marketplace and build new partnerships.
“WA exhibits at Fine Food Australia in Melbourne last September have attracted interest from buyers in Hawaii, Hong Kong, Bali and Singapore with requests for samples of products including mustards, olive oils, truffles, preserves and juice,” he said. “The Hawaiian request was for product samples from 13 Western Australian companies. These have been sent to Hawaii and are currently being reviewed. Hong Kong has asked for products from 10 companies, while Bali and Singapore buyers are interested in several food lines.”
Inquiries about any of the food events can be forwarded to Carolyn Hine, International Liaison Officer, Department of Agriculture and Food at chine@agric.wa.gov.au.
