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Nagambie Lakes Uncorks Wine Excellence For China

11 March 2016

A delegation of key buyers in China’s massive eCommerce market will visit Nagambie Lakes as part of the Victorian Invitation Program (VIP), the state’s flagship inbound trade mission program aimed at connecting Victorian businesses with major markets around the world to drive exports.

Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis accompanied the Chinese delegation to the Tahbilk Winery in Nagambie to experience the very best of the wine region today.

The buyers also visited Mitchelton, McPherson Wines and the Ozpak packaging and bottling plant in the Nagambie Lakes region, which is home to some of Australia and the world’s oldest Shiraz (Syrah) vines dating back to 1860.

Victoria exported a total of $200 million dollars of wine in 2014-15 to key international markets. $64 million of this went to China, a figure expected to grow even further given the increasing demand from the Chinese market.

Acknowledging the importance of the wine industry, the Andrews Labor Government allocated $1 million dollars aimed at boosting growth, increasing cellar door visits, creating jobs and promoting regional tourism, which will be guided by an industry strategy due for delivery in July this year.

Overall Victorian exports to China have grown by more than 140 per cent since 2006, presenting extraordinary trading opportunities for businesses, both regional and metropolitan, wanting to share in the more than $20 billion dollars in annual trade.

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 from the world’s biggest eCommerce market why Victoria is leading the country in wine exports – and that we really do have the best of everything.”

“Being able to bring these international buyers to Victoria’s doorstep is the best way for them to see the state’s expert capabilities when it comes to wine production and distribution.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford

"The Victorian wine industry has a key role to play in growing regional communities and economies, in creating jobs and boosting our tourism and export market.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes

“This is a great opportunity to showcase the fantastic wines of the Nagambie Lakes region to key players from Victoria’s biggest trading partner. Keeping the regions globally connected will ensure our local economies remain strong and able to grow.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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