Xi

With the Chinese economic miracle in full swing, Tasmania has a once in a lifetime opportunity with our biggest trading partners thanks to the announcement of a visit by the President, Xi Jinping.

President Jinping and his wife Madam Peng Liyuan will visit Tasmanian territory on 17 November, following his attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brisbane on 15 and 16 November.

The jam packed visit will present an opportunity to promote Tasmania to the world and to further strengthen already solid ties with China.

During the week the State will host TasInvest to showcase the best of Tasmania’s investment opportunities in agriculture, aquaculture, resources, tourism, education and Antarctic affairs.

China is currently Tasmania’s largest trading partner – with merchandise and exports of $610 million – and further potential to grow this amount substantially.

Tasmania’s growing profile as a must-see tourism destination will also benefit from the visit, set to result in massive international exposure for our state as a holiday destination.

China is Tasmania’s number one international tourist market with a record 20,400 Chinese tourists visiting in the 12 months to June. The Chinese President’s visit to Tasmania will help the state to reach its target of attracting 1.5 million visitors every year by 2020.

Chief Executive Officer of the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Michael Bailey, said the visit would be fantastic opportunity to boost investment and trade.

“It’s a historic occasion, and one we have been wanting for a very long time,” Mr Bailey said.

“As a state, our friendship with China has spanned over many years and we look forward to this opportunity to make our relationship even stronger.

Premier Will Hodgman said the visit was wonderful news for the State, both economically and socially.

“Tasmania’s ability to supply the Chinese growing market with high-quality produce with guaranteed provenance makes this a major economic opportunity,” Premier Hodgman said.

The Chinese market is particularly attracted to Tasmania thanks to its clean environment and quality reputation, two characteristics that will be showcased at the TasInvest event.

Premier Hodgman said there had been strong interest to the invite-only two-day event, with more than 80 Chinese and international delegates registering, including a number of Fortune 500 companies.

“TasInvest, which will include high level facilitation activities to help match investors and proponents, will open up the commercial opportunities that exist in Tasmania to international investors.

“I am confident Tasmanians will embrace this once in a generation opportunity to promote everything special about our state.”

By Carmen McSweyn