Strong WA representation at South American mining expo

28/4/94

Western Australia's mining equipment and services sector would have a strong presence at South America's largest mining exposition for the first time, Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan said today.

Mr Cowan said participation by 13 Western Australian firms at Expomin'94 in Chile from May 10-15 was being co-ordinated and supported by the Department of Commerce and Trade.

The companies would be seeking customers for products and services such as drill bits, conveyer systems, software, engineering consultancies, mine management and catering services. Some were already active in South America.

"The department and Austrade will co-manage an Australian national stand, which includes 28 companies in all, at the Santiago expo," Mr Cowan said.

"It is the first time the Western Australian Government has organised a major trade promotion activity in South America, but I am confident trade links will grow.

"Opportunities for mining equipment and products in this market were identified in the Government's recently announced trade growth strategy.

"WA's 'hard-rock' conditions are similar to those in South America, so our products and expertise are well-suited.

"South American economies are increasingly being opened to international competition and Western Australian firms have proved their competitiveness with growing success in Asia."

According to organisers, Expomin'92 attracted more than 1,000 exhibitors, only four of them Australian, and about 25,000 visitors.  A considerable increase is expected this year.

They say the South American mining market is worth more than US$21 billion.  Chile is the world's largest copper producer and a leading source of other important minerals.

Mr Cowan said a Department of Commerce and Trade officer would also join an Australian trade mission to Peru to meet government and private sector mining industry officials, before attending Expomin'94.

Media contact:  Peter Jackson 222 9595