INCREASED support will be provided to Victorian agribusiness exporters keen to leverage the lucrative China market, the state government says.
The government has just released its official China Strategy, seeking to facilitate stronger business ties.
The strategy document identifies agribusiness as an opportunity, noting Victoria is Australia’s largest food and fibre exporter and a centre for premium food and beverage products.
According to the strategy, Victoria’s total food and fibre exports grew to a record value of $20.1 billion in 2023-24.
“With the Victorian Industry Policy identifying food manufacturing as a priority sector, the Victorian government will increase our support for Victorian exporters and innovators to build confidence operating in China and open doors for future collaboration,” the strategy document stated.
China is Victoria’s largest food and fibre export partner, with exports in this sector reaching almost $5 billion in 2023-24.
“Exports to China have increased in recent years and the Victorian government is committed to supporting our producers and exporters to continue this growth,” the strategy documented stated.
Victoria was said to be at the forefront of agricultural innovation in Australia, with a strong focus on productivity, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
The release of the Victorian China Strategy occurred during a week when the Ninth Australia–China High Level Dialogue is taking place in Beijing.
Among those taking part in the dialogue is National Farmers’ Federation president David Jochinke who noted China was Australia’s largest single export destination for agriculture, fisheries and forestry products, and a critical partner for agriculture.
Mr Jochinke said the NFF’s participation in the dialogue reflected the importance of maintaining and strengthening this relationship.
“The NFF has always championed free and fair trade, not just for agriculture, but across industries because of the role it plays in economic growth and global stability. Australian agriculture is unwavering in its commitment to that principle,” he said.