Media releases from the Australian Minister for Trade, Mark Vaile

Australian Minister for Trade, Mark Vaile

Thursday, May 11, 2000 / EMBARGO 7:00pm
MVT38/2000

World Expo 2000 - Hannover

Trade Minister, Mark Vaile, tonight (7:30) launched 'Trade Route Australia 2000' the official VIP publication of Australia's pavilion at World Expo 2000.

'Trade Route Australia', published by Stroudgate Australasia (both online and as a high-quality book) will extend the reach of Australia's participation in Expo 2000 to senior European business, government and media representatives.

Expo 2000, being held in Hannover, Germany, from June 1 until October 31, will be the largest exposition yet, with 192 countries and international organisations participating. German organisers expect 40 million visits during the five months.

Speaking at the launch in Sydney among 150 representatives of Australia's leading businesses, Mr Vaile emphasised the importance of the opportunities created by the largest offshore promotion of Australia this year.

"Australia's stunning pavilion will be a global platform to promote Australia as a supplier of excellent and innovative goods and services - from valued-added primary products to leading-edge information technologies.

"Projecting an updated image of Australia to the affluent markets of Europe during the five months of Expo will also boost tourism and encourage further inwards investment in key industry sectors, as well as showcase the best of contemporary Australian arts."

The Federal Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), is responsible for Australia's involvement in Expo 2000, forming a coalition of supporters among the State and territory governments and leading Australian companies such as QANTAS, Fosters and Gerard Industries.

"Businesses should consider the benefits of participating in the series of seminars to be held during Expo 2000, focusing on key industries including environmental technologies, biotechnology, entertainment and media, automotive, education and training services, agribusiness and information/communications technology.

"The Federal Government is committed to creating an outstanding opportunity to showcase the best of Australian innovation, capability and capacity to perhaps our most important market."