A trade mission from the Queensland government in Australia will be in Fiji this week in a bid to “strengthen Pacific trade, investment and community ties”.
Led by Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) chief executive officer Justin McGowan, the mission aims to “further consolidate Queensland’s position as Australia’s gateway to the Pacific, supported by Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Pacific, Leata Alaimoana”.
“Queensland’s strong links with Samoa and Fiji, and the entire Pacific region, is based on a committed and unique relationship,” Mr McGowan said.
“Queensland is home to a large Pacific diaspora; we respect the collectivism and shared values approach to business and investment needs in the region.
“Our people-to-people links are a living bridge between Queensland and the Pacific which we value highly.
“The purpose of this Pacific Trade Mission is to listen and explore mutually beneficial partnerships as well as deepen our connections further.
“It reinforces why we are the first and only state in Australia with a committed Queensland Pacific Trade Strategy, and Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner dedicated to bringing the strategy to life,” Mr McGowan said.
The Queensland Pacific Trade Strategy is backed by $4.38million commitment from the Queensland Government and according to Mr McGowan, a business development specialist will be appointed in Fiji later this year to add on to the growing Queensland Pacific team.
“We already have engaged other specialists in Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.”
Executive Director, Australia Pacific Business Council and Australia Fiji Business Council Frank Yourn welcomed the move.
“It’s so encouraging to work with Trade and Investment Queensland who have been extremely responsive and enthusiastic to work with the private sector across the Pacific.
“The Australia Pacific Islands Business Council and the Australia Fiji Business Council are pleased to partner with Queensland to elevate the many existing opportunities where we can work together to create economic and community success,” Mr Yourn said.
TIQ’s Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Pacific, Leata Alaimoana said since the Queensland government’s announcement of the Queensland Pacific Trade Strategy at the end of 2022, enthusiasm have been shown by Pacific governments, businesses and the local communities.
“It’s a real privilege to have the ability to facilitate what have become enduring connections through Trade and Investment Queensland.
“The importance of continuing our state’s engagement with this region has implications for more powerful economic opportunities both here and right across Queensland,” Ms Alaimoana said.
The week-long event will be attended by the permanent secretary for Trade Shaheen Ali, permanent secretary for Lands Dr Raijeli Taga, Samoan Ministers, entrepreneurs, and Queensland University Alumni.
