BFVG awarded $80K for South Korean Trade Mission

Thursday, 3 July 2014

Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers has been awarded $80,000 to undertake a Trade Mission in South Korea as part of the Federal Government’s Asian Business Engagement Plan. 

Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt congratulated BFVG on its deserving application.

“BFVG’s success shows what an effective advocate the organisation is for our local producers and value adders,” Mr Pitt said.

“These grants will enable organisations like BFVG to pursue opportunities generated by the Government’s recently concluded Free Trade Agreement with South Korea.”

Member for Flynn Ken O’Dowd said helping businesses expand into new markets would give the horticulture sector a much needed shot in the arm.

“Export trade is not only good for the businesses concerned; it’s also good for jobs and good for the local and national economies,” Mr O’Dowd said.

BFVG Executive Officer Peter Hockings said the grant would help support a market familiarisation and trade relations program for some of the Wide Bay Burnett’s horticulture businesses.

“South Korea is one of Australia’s largest trading partners,” Mr Hockings said.

“This is a valuable opportunity for producers to develop longer-term business and trade relations, potentially increasing the volumes and range of horticulture produce currently exported to South Korea.”  

BFVG is one of 18 member-based organisations nationally which have been awarded an ABE grant in 2014. Under the Plan, eligible applicants can be offered between $20,000 and $300,000 in grants. The grants, administered by Austrade, are merit-based and competitive.

Australia’s trade links with Asia are expected to represent at least one-third of GDP by 2025, up from one-quarter in 2011. 

Media contacts: Keith Pitt: Larine Statham 0427 653 814, Ken O’Dowd: David Kerr 0405 380 264

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