Joint Media Release with The Hon Martin Pakula MLC, Victorian Minister for Industry and Trade
7 December 2009
Joint push to boost auto trade with Asia
The Government of Victoria and the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) are combining resources to boost exports of automotive components, technology and services to Asia as well as attract new inbound investment.
Addressing in-market representatives at the start of a week long familiarisation conference, Victorian Industry and Trade Minister, Martin Pakula said the arrangement was a great example of inter-government co-operation supporting the nation’s vital automotive sector.
"As Australia’s leading automotive State, Victoria has taken a strong lead in promoting local capabilities worldwide," he said.
"This agreement will see us pool resources with Austrade to create an even stronger impact in China, India, Thailand and Korea. New automotive specialists will be located in these countries to build relationships between indigenous and Australian automotive companies.
The new network will be managed by both Austrade and the Victorian Government and is being funded by the Australian Government’s New Car Plan for a Greener Future and the Victorian Automotive Manufacturing Action Plan.
Mr Pakula said both governments recognised that specialist in-market support was fundamental to gaining access to the Asian motor vehicle producers and their suppliers.
Also at the conference, the Australian Parliamentary Secretary for Trade, Anthony Byrne highlighted the strong interest in Australia-China automotive collaboration as a result of the recent visit by Trade Minister, Simon Crean and Innovation, Industry, Science & Research Minister, Kim Carr to five Chinese vehicle producers.
"Australia’s automotive exports to China were worth $79.3 million in 2008," said Mr Byrne.
"This initiative will help Australian businesses further capitalise on opportunities that exist in the automotive industry in China."
Media: Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555