Council explores Singapore trade opportunities

Published on 19 February 2016

Rockhampton's strong relationship with Singapore continues this week with further meetings from an International Exchange Singapore (IES) representative to encourage direct exports.  

Mayor Margaret Strelow said the Region already has strong links when it comes to all things military, and now is the time to explore investment and trade opportunities.

"My recent visit was a deliberate attempt to widen the areas of engagement and to look for investment and trade opportunities that might lead to jobs for our Region," Mayor Strelow said.

"It's wonderful to see that this strong message in Singapore is beginning to pay off.

"Rockhampton has played host for the last two days to a representative from Singapore's equivalent of Austrade.

"Included in the visit have been meetings with individual potential exporters, a site visit to Teys' Lakes Creek Meat Works and general discussions about opportunities in Southeast Asia.

"Singapore is a hub for this Region and has access to markets through numerous free trade agreements.  Some of these are for locations that are more difficult for companies exporting directly out of Australia.

"The offer of partnership in expanding our export businesses is one that we will definitely progress.

"Last night a meeting of key players from State, Federal and Local Government discussed a Regional approach to marketing our produce."