WA to be well-represented at Kobe (Japan) trade fair next week

7/10/95

Western Australia would be well represented at an important Japanese trade fair next week, Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan said today.

Mr Cowan said the Kobe Import Fair, from October 12-15, traditionally enabled a wide range of overseas businesses to exhibit consumer goods and services to distributors and the general public.

"The fair attracts more than 40,000 visitors and, this year, goods and services from 16 countries will be on display," he said.

"Among the firms participating in the Western Australian exhibition is Mt Romance which has signed a $10 million contract to supply its emu-oil based cosmetics to Japan since it exhibited at the fair last year.

"Others include building product and furniture manufacturers, winemakers, a private college and a company which makes garments and accessories using emu, kangaroo and sheep leather."

Mr Cowan said Kobe was the largest city in Hyogo Prefecture, with which WA had a Sister-State relationship.

"Participation in this year's fair is particularly significant as it marks Kobe's rapid return to normality following the devastating earthquake in January," he said.

"Our strong links with City and Prefectural authorities also mean that the WA stand has a prime location at the fair, directly opposite the main entrance."

The WA exhibitors will leave Perth tomorrow, accompanied by a representative of the Department of Commerce and Trade which organised the State's participation and is responsible for co-ordinating the Sister-State Relationship.

Media contact: Peter Jackson 222 9595