Six WA wool growers to join delegation to China in mid-March

26/2/98

Primary Industry Minister Monty House announced today that six Western Australian wool growers would join the Wool Strategy Group delegation to China in mid-March.

Mr House said the Wool Strategy Group had highlighted the need to strengthen relations with China's Government and wool processors for the State's wool industry to increase its share of the growing Chinese market.

China already buys more than 22 per cent of the WA wool clip, valued at $166 million, and is expected to increase its demand for wool over the next five years.

"The China textile industry has announced an overhaul of its milling equipment to improve the quality of textiles," Mr House said.

"It is important for our industry to understand how changes in processing will impact on our industry.

"It is critical that we continue to increase the level of communication between our buyers and WA wool producers to ensure that our industry is well placed to adapt to the new requirements for the future of the industry.

"Building stronger links with our buyers means growers will be better able to adapt their wool production systems and management techniques to achieve optimum returns.

"The Wool Strategy Group delegation plans to visit major processing companies in the Shanghai and Beijing regions to enable participants to develop a clearer picture of emerging trends in the Chinese textile industry and to identify the major factors influencing buying decisions."

Mr House said that in addition to identifying and meeting customers needs, it was critical that the Wool Strategy Group delegation promoted the true value of WA wool to China and encouraged a greater commitment to contracts.

"It is essential that we work together to bring greater security to business transactions between WA and China," he said.

"We know that our wool is produced efficiently, is available in large volumes and has characteristics which are ideal for processing in China.

"This delegation will make certain that processors in China recognise the high value of buying their wool directly from WA and will encourage key decision-makers in China to take advantage of the information service at the Wool Service Desk."

Mr House said that on their return members of the delegation would share their insights with wool growers and traders throughout WA.

The following woolgrowers will join the delegation:

·         Judy Snell - Moora

·         Margaret Agnew - Esperance

·         Mark Wunnenberg - Darkan

·         Ted Officer - Mullewa

·         Richard Coole - Kojonup

·         Trevor DeLandgrafft - Ravensthorpe.

Media contacts: Julie Cole (08) 9481 2044

Elizabeth Foley (08) 9424 3169