Food producers commended on scheme promoting exports to Japan

23/2/95

Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan has congratulated Western Australian food and drink producers on a new initiative aimed at promoting exports to Japan.

Mr Cowan said the WA Food and Beverages Export Association (FAB), incorporated last Friday, would help build WA's reputation as a high quality food products supplier.

"The member companies produce a wide range of products from wine and ice-cream to meat, seafood, smallgoods and fruit and vegetables," he said.

"Through the association, small and medium-sized producers will be able to benefit from the expertise and contacts of larger and well-established exporters."

Mr Cowan said the group's first activity was to host a visit to Perth by 15 Japanese food buyers.

"These visitors represent major restaurant and supermarket chains whose combined turnover exceeds $1.3 billion," he said.

"Today they have met representatives from more than 20 local companies and at a dinner tonight will enjoy a large range of local food and drinks.

"During March, FAB has booked a stand at Foodex '95 in Tokyo, Japan's largest food and beverage expo and is organising visits to Japanese food retailers and distributors."

Mr Cowan said the Department of Commerce and Trade had encouraged formation of the WA Food and Beverages Export Group and was supplying secretariat services.

"Other State and Commonwealth agencies including Agwest and Austrade are supporting the group and JETRO, a Japanese Government body which encourages exports to Japan, is also providing assistance," he added.

Media contact:  Peter Jackson 222-9595 (Mr Cowan's office)

A.K. Chn'g 344-9344 (WA Food and Beverage Export Association)