The Andrews Labor Government will host more than 250 international delegates over the next two weeks as part of the state’s flagship inbound trade mission program, connecting Victorian businesses with major markets around the world in a bid to drive export opportunities and attract investment.
Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis launched the Victoria Invitation Program (VIP) in Melbourne today, which will see more than 20 countries participate in the biggest cross-industry inbound program of its kind.
The two-week program will focus on Victoria’s industry sectors with the greatest potential for export growth, including medical technology and pharmaceuticals, food and fibre, international education, digital technology, professional services and retail.
International delegates will take part in one of 15 specifically tailored programs unique to their industry, with metropolitan and regional Victorian businesses, organisations and individuals showcasing their innovative and expert capabilities to deliver high quality products and services.
The VIP will also feature a series of export workshops to help Victorian businesses learn to pitch to investors and acquire the skills needed to tap into international markets.
The mission comes at an opportune time for Victoria, with export capabilities at a record high. The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show Victoria’s economy continues to surge with goods and services exports totalling more than $43 billion in 2015 – the highest in at least four years.
The VIP forms part of the Labor Government’s $12 million dollar four-year inbound trade mission initiative, which has a sharpened focus on bringing key international buyers and investors to the state to experience first-hand the very best of what Victoria has to offer.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis
“This a great opportunity to show key buyers and investors from more than 20 countries across the world why Victoria is leading the country in exports – and that we really do have the best of everything.”
“Our inbound trade mission initiative is already proving successful, with 2015 Victoria’s biggest export year yet. These programs are bringing the world to our doorstep so that more Victorian businesses have more opportunities to form partnerships that will help them grow.”
“Keeping Victoria globally connected is what will help keep our economy strong and create new jobs for the future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020