A DELEGATION from Greater Shepparton has returned from two weeks in China, Hong Kong and Jakarta with very positive reports on the meetings held and the potential for business growth for the Goulburn Valley’s food industry.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe, Director Sustainable Development, Geraldine Christou, Economic Development Project Officer, Rohan Sali and local orchardist, Peter Hall travelled to China, Hong Kong and Jakarta on August 28 and returned on September 8 having visited several government representatives, business operators and attended Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong.
Council met with AusTrade, Business Victoria, Changzhou Institute of Technology, Jintan District, Invest Hong Kong, CV Cherry Fruit & PT Corona Prajitna, Gunung Sewu Group, SHB Group and the Victorian Government Business Office in Indonesia, as well as attending three days at the Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong.
Cr O’Keeffe said, “The trip provided the opportunity to build strong international relationships and showcase Greater Shepparton and the opportunities we can offer in investment, export and also lifestyle.
“To be competitive in attracting trade with these countries you need to be there and meet with people.
“There were a lot of honest conversations and respect between all parties we met with, especially at Fruit Logistica.
“Goulburn Valley growers at the event were most appreciative of council’s involvement, we were the only local government organisation there with our own stall representing Greater Shepparton as the fruit capital of Australia.
“We were very well received and were able to provide a whole new level of exposure for our region under the Great Things Happen Here banner. We have a powerful story as the food bowl of Australia. Our aim is to increase the amount we can export to Asia from Greater Shepparton.
“There are opportunities there for growers and council supports efforts to increase export trade.
Geraldine Christou said, “Our orchardists are a leading factor in the economic development of our region and council will look at strategies of increasing the opportunities for more growers to be involved in Fruit Logistica.
“We want our growers to be front and centre of future exposure to Asia’s biggest trade show for fresh fruit.”
