Truss meets State and Territory Trade Ministers

The Australian Government Minister for Trade, Warren Truss, today chaired the National Trade Consultations in Canberra.

The National Trade Consultations (NTC) are the consultative forum on trade issues between the Australian Government and State and Territory Governments.

Mr Truss met his ministerial counterparts to exchange information and identify strategies for cooperation on trade issues.

“The meeting discussed a broad range of trade-related issues, including progress in the WTO Doha Round of negotiations and Australia’s ambitious Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiating agenda,” Mr Truss said.

“The ministerial group also discussed opportunities for further cooperation between the Australian and State and Territories Governments to build upon Australia’s recent record trade performance and to assist Australian businesses to grow their businesses internationally.

“Australian governments work best when we pool our resources and pull in the same direction. Our cooperation on trade is as important as any other area of Commonwealth/State relations.

“While the Commonwealth and State and Territory Governments have different responsibilities, we share a common interest in maximising the benefits of trade.

“Australia achieved a record export result of $210 billion in 2006, and building upon this trade result is in everyone’s best interests.

“More trade means more economic prosperity and jobs for all Australians,” Mr Truss said.

Media Inquiries: Minister Truss' office 02 6277 7420 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555