Greater Shepparton City Council endorsed the revised International Engagement Strategy at the July council meeting, to further enhance the economic and cultural prosperity of the region.
The strategy focuses on building relationships, facilitation of business growth through access to international markets and the attraction of international funds for economic growth. It does this by highlighting outcomes that can be achieved within the region and detailing actions and next steps.
The strategy, which was initially developed in 2017, has now been revised to broaden exploration of trade opportunities from a previous emphasis on Asia and predominately China, to other areas such as Indonesia and United Arab Emirates.
Mayor, Cr Shane Sali said opportunities for trade and education initiatives continue to be at the forefront of the strategy which features five major themes of support, business, promotion, visitation and friendship cities.
“The strategy aims to attract and drive investment to the region and facilitate employment growth in both agriculture and industry.
Our international connections are extremely important, and this strategy ensures we are continually working to capitalise on export opportunities and growing our export economy,” said the mayor.
“Greater Shepparton’s stance at the heart of the food bowl of Australia, and the worldwide demand for fresh, clean and green produce, meant the strategy was now more important than ever,” he added.
