- Published:
- Thursday 12 March 2015
Key international fruit buyers today saw first-hand the diversity and quality of Victoria’s produce and production systems as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s inbound super trade mission.
Through the agri-food component of the inaugural Victorian Invitation Program, the Labor Government is building on
Key international fruit buyers today saw first-hand the diversity and quality of Victoria’s produce and production systems as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s inbound super trade mission.
Through the agri-food component of the inaugural Victorian Invitation Program, the Labor Government is building on Victoria’s reputation for premium fresh produce and prepared food, quality agricultural land, clean water supply and innovative production systems.
As part of an intensive three-day visit program, Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, accompanied around 20 fruit buyers to Montague Fresh’s Lysterfield orchard.
After an early start at the Melbourne Wholesale Market, the fruit buyers also enjoyed a fruit showcase in the Yarra Valley before visiting Montague Fresh, one of Victoria’s larger horticulture producers and exporters.
The visit to Montague’s orchard provided an opportunity for delegates to visit a vertically integrated farm, one of five the company operates around Australia, which grows and packs fruit for the domestic and international market. Delegates also enjoyed a tasting of a range of fruits.
Meat and prepared food tours gave the visiting international customers a targeted appreciation for an array of high quality Victorian products and innovative production systems.
The Labor Government is committed to supporting Victoria’s food and agriculture sector to grow exports and address trade barriers, with a focus on targeted inbound trade missions.
Eighty agriculture and food importers and retailers from China, South East Asia and the Middle East are visiting Victoria as part of the inbound trade mission.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford
“We’re bringing international investors to our doorstep and giving them a taste of what we do best.”
“Victoria is known for fresh local produce, quality food and a clean water supply. That’s what we’re promoting.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Trade, Adem Somyurek
“The Victoria Invitation Program is about promoting Victorian goods, services and expertise to a critical mass of international buyers.”
“This landmark initiative will build our partnerships, investment and trade.”