Northern Rivers export trade opportunities on the agenda

AROUND 50 people from businesses and industry groups gathered at Husk Farm Distillery in Tumbulgum for the latest NSW Government ASEAN Market Update for NSW Businesses last week.

The update provided information on trends and export opportunities across Southeast Asian markets.

NSW Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said exporting was crucial for growth and resilience.

“Higher exports lead to higher wages and more employment, driving long-term prosperity across our state,” he said.

“Southeast Asia is entering a golden age – it is the fastest growing region in the world, with strong potential for NSW exporters in sectors like agrifood, life sciences, healthcare and technology.

Minister for Small Business and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said it was wonderful to support local businesses to expand their reach across the world.

“I have a long-standing interest and engagement with our ASEAN neighbours, as does our Northern NSW region, but there remains enormous potential for our small businesses to take those relationships to the next level,” she said.

Southeast Asia is NSW’s second-largest trading partner, with two-way trade in goods growing by more than 9 per cent in the past year.

Continued rapid growth is expected in sectors such as food and beverages, health, and the digital economy.

Parliamentary Secretary for Trade and Small Business and Duty MLC for Tweed, Emily Suvaal, said the region was home to many innovative businesses with vast export potential.

“Southeast Asia presents a golden opportunity for growth,” she said.

“The NSW Government is here to support local businesses every step of the way to ensure they can compete and thrive on the world stage.”

For more information, visit investment.nsw.gov.au/export