Media Release

4 December 2003 - MVT90/2003

Trade Minister to Visit Middle East

Enhancing Australia's trade relationships with Gulf states will be on Trade Minister Mark Vaile's agenda when he visits Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), 4 to 11 December.

Mr Vaile will hold discussions with leaders in those countries about a wide range of trade issues affecting Australian national interests.

"Australian companies across a wide range of sectors are well placed to increase their penetration of Gulf markets. I will encourage government and business leaders in the region to consider sourcing more of their sophisticated goods and services from Australia," Mr Vaile said.

Mr Vaile will also discuss Australia's role as a global supplier of high quality commodities, including livestock.

"Australia remains committed to the trade in livestock, on certain agreed conditions. I will deliver a clear message to Saudi Arabia that Australia is not willing to see a repeat of the MV Cormo Express incident. Trade in livestock must take place on a transparent and predictable basis."

Mr Vaile will meet key ministers in the UAE to discuss closer economic relations, including the possibility of a Free Trade Agreement.

"An FTA with the UAE that removes barriers to trade and investment across the board promises to deliver substantial benefits for Australia," Mr Vaile said.

In 2002-2003 combined Australian trade with the Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE totalled almost $6 billion. Of that, $3.7 billion represented exports from Australia. The exports comprised a wide range of both commodities and manufactured goods, including aircraft, ships, passenger motor vehicles in addition to wheat, livestock, dairy products and vegetables.

Contact: Matthew Doman 02 6277 7420