The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to safeguard the future of regional New South Wales, with a three-day international trade mission commencing in the South Coast showcasing all the region has to offer.
International delegates from 13 countries are attending the South Coast trade mission, which will focus on the region's emerging industries which present investment, trade and industry development opportunities.
As the state's economy grows and changes into the future, building enduring partnerships with international investors and exploring new opportunities for local industries in global markets is vital.
This mission will give the delegates a firsthand experience of the innovation, trade, investment and collaboration opportunities regional New South Wales has to offer.
Representatives from Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Switzerland and the United Kingdom are visiting Eden, Merimbula, Bega, Moruya, Broulee and Batemans Bay.
The trip include meeting with local industry leaders such as the Alkath Group, Bega Cheese, Broulee Brewery, Australia's Oyster Coast, and Sea Urchin Harvest.
Delegates will learn more about how South Coast businesses such as Recycling Technologies Group in Eden are reducing landfill from metal and timber manufacturing by turning the waste into a new, viable energy source.
They will also have the chance to soak up the scenery and learn more about the rich Aboriginal heritage of Killalea Regional Park, Jigamy Farm and Snug Cove.
The trade mission is part of the NSW Government's Regional Investment Activation Program, which aims to drive growth, create jobs, and promote investment in regional NSW.
To date, the initiative has supported five trade missions in NSW in regional locations such as the Hunter, Riverina and Central West.
Minister for the Illawarra & South Coast Ryan Park said:
"The South Coast is a hub of industry and natural abundance and I'm so proud we have an opportunity to showcase this to international markets."
Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
"We are saying very clearly to the global community - Regional New South Wales is open for business!
"As well as the South Coast of NSW being a stunningly beautiful place to visit, the region is a hub of opportunity and has so much to offer in terms of established and emerging industries.
"There is no substitute for first-hand experience, and I am delighted that the Consuls-General will have a chance to get outside of the metropolitan areas and get an authentic understanding of this region's economic strengths in person.
"This trade mission is putting regional NSW front and centre for global investors to help us open the door to new opportunities, create jobs, and drive growth in our regions."
Minister for Industry and Trade, Anoulack Chanthivong said:
"Diversifying our state's trade offerings is central to the Minns Labor Government's plan for our trade economy.
"Showcasing local South Coast businesses to representatives from major international markets including China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom, is not only an opportunity for the local economy but increases the profile of NSW across the globe.
"This is another great example of the Minns Labor Government creating real international trade opportunities for local businesses."
State Member for South Coast, Liza Butler said:
"The South Coast is a region of unparalleled natural beauty and innovation, making it an incredible destination for global business and investment and I welcome the delegates to the region.
"It is exciting that the delegates will visit Huskisson to launch the NSW Government's Seaweed Prospectus at PhycoHealth, a local business that specialises in sustainable seaweed products. The seaweed industry not only drives innovation but also reinforces our commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.
"This trade mission is a testament to the unique opportunities our industries on the South Coast have to offer; from world-class aquaculture to groundbreaking clean tech advancements."
State Member for Bega, Michael Holland said:
"I am pleased to welcome the international trade mission to the beautiful Bega electorate.
This is a wonderful opportunity to share the best of the Far South Coast's primary production from our dairy products to the world's best oyster industry.
Our visitors will experience the Eurobodalla and the Bega Valley's hospitality as well as witnessing innovative manufacturing and tourism industries."
