Media release

Australian Minister for Trade, Mark Vaile

Thursday, August 3, 2000
MVT72g/2000

Toyota Aust Sets Export Lead

Trade Minister, Mark Vaile, today congratulated Toyota Australia on the sale of its 100,000th Camry to the Middle East.

Mr Vaile said Toyota was Australia's largest exporter of motor vehicles – accounting for roundly half of the motor vehicles exported from Australia.

"Toyota Australia started exporting to the Middle East in 1996 from its Altona plant in Melbourne, and in the year to June, its exports climbed to just under 40,000 vehicles," Mr Vaile said.

"It's been a fantastic effort by Toyota and its staff. Camry exports are now running at more than 3000 a month, particularly to Saudi Arabia, where the Aussie-built Camry is now that country's largest-selling motor car."

Mr Vaile said Toyota Australia was currently exporting completely built-up cars to 26 countries, with export earnings from the company approaching $900 million this year – 30% higher than last year.

Mr Vaile congratulated the management and staff of Toyota Australia on their commitment to building "world class" motor vehicles.

Mr Vaile said Toyota Australia had played a major role in Australia setting a 37 per cent increase in the export of transport equipment in 1999-2000, from $3.34 billion to $4.6 billion.