Interest was high regarding the processes behind becoming a competitive exporter, at Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise’s (TSBE) Dalby Innovation Series.
The lunch event, held on June 19, attracted nearly 50 people to hear from a diverse group of panellists discussing the key to unlocking global competitiveness within the agriculture sector.
Wiley’s Michael Matthewson was keynote speaker and began proceedings by giving his thoughts on global trends and opportunities along with international, national and regional examples of innovation excellence in the agribusiness sector.
“The products we are producing need to make sure they hit the right markets,” Mr Matthewson said.
“There is a growing middle-class market in Asia with estimates of 3.2 billion people by 2030 in the Asia Pacific. When an opportunity presents itself, exporters need to already have the logistics in place.”
University of Southern Queensland’s Professor Steven Raine then facilitated a panel, which included Mr Matthewson along with Ash Geldard from Columboola Cotton and RED Industrial, General Manager at Oakey Abattoir Pat Gleeson and Dr Alison McCarthy; winner of the Federal Government’s 2014 Science and Innovation Award for Young People in Agriculture.
TSBE’s Agribusiness and Export General Manager Jo Sheppard said it was positive to see so much continued interest in the export sector.
“We had four very experienced panellists able to give us differing views on the issues affecting innovation within the agriculture sector, and this provided enormous value for attendees,” Ms Sheppard said.
“There are many logistical processes behind becoming a successful exporter and these events are giving attendees helpful and strategic advice for those looking to get their foot in the door within the Asian markets. I think at this point the more we can learn about the emerging Asian opportunities, the better placed businesses in our region will be.”
It was the third event held in the series and was sponsored by Agrifood Skills Australia.
Source: www.tsbe.com.au
For more information, contact Jo Sheppard on 0407 024 665 or Laura Hunt on (07) 4639 4600.
