With a growing demand for clean, green food in Asia – and significant investment in infrastructure – the opportunity exists for Western Downs and Surat Basin producers to grow into new markets.
TSBE Food Leaders Australia (FLA) is looking for agribusinesses who are eager to explore international trade, through the Emerging Exporters Program (EEP).
Applications are closing soon, with businesses encouraged to submit an expression of interest.
TSBE’s FLA export manager food and agribusiness, Justin Heaven said graduates of the program had been successful in breaking into the international export market.
“We’ve seen participants like Four Daughters Premium Black Angus successfully export to China and Riverbend Pork Group export to markets in Asia,” he said.
“EEP is a fantastic program which provides tailored support and the tools for businesses to grow both domestically and internationally,” said Mr Heaven.
The EEP, delivered by TSBE’s FLA, is an initiative of Shell’s QGC business and is a three-year program to see a cohort make inroads into these new markets.
SMA Marketing is a previous participant, which Belinda Boshammer said helped develop the company’s export strategy and understanding of overseas markets.
“When we first joined the program, we knew where we wanted to get to and with help through EEP, we’ve developed the plan of how to get there.”
“Starting an export program in the current environment hasn’t been the easiest due to the challenges around logistics and staff but we have great logistics and retail partners and we’re looking forward to the future,” said Ms Boshammer.
Rangeland Quality Meats managing director Alister Hughes said the Emerging Exporters Program was a great experience.
“Being in a room full of like-minded businesses is a great opportunity to grow your knowledge base, while being able to have all your questions answered by people and businesses who have walked the road before you,” he said.
“It provided me and my business a better understanding of the process, and do’s and don’ts and what to look out for when entering the export markets.”
The social investment program, supported by Shell’s joint venture partners Tokyo Gas and CNOOC, contributes to a strong and diverse economy within the Western Downs.
To find out more information about the Emerging Exporters Program contact Justin Heaven on 07 4639 4600 or email justin@tsbe.com.au.
