Friday, 13 March, 2015 AGRI-FOOD BUYERS SEE THE BEST VICTORIA HAS TO OFFER Victoria’s best food and wine was on show to 80 international agriculture and food importers last night as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s first inbound super trade mission. Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, last night hosted an Agriculture and Food Networking Event to showcase Victoria’s renowned food and wine and provide an opportunity for industry leaders and exporters to network with the visiting international customers. In addition to the Agriculture and Food Networking Event, a number of targeted business engagement activities are being supported through the Victorian Invitation Program: A regional tour program on March 12, with fruit, meat and prepared food tours aimed at building customer awareness of the diversity and quality of the state’s products and innovative production systems Targeted business matching activities A gala event on March 13, hosted by Premier Daniel Andrews, for all international delegates participating in the Victoria Invitation Program. Approximately 100 Victorian agri-food exporters are meeting with the visiting international delegates during the three-day program. Victoria’s food and fibre industry is one of the state’s key economic drivers, contributing more than $11 billion to exports. In 2013-14 meat was Victoria’s most valuable export commodity, reaching a value of $2.34 billion, while dairy was worth $2.29 billion, grain $1.95 billion and horticulture’s export value grew 48 per cent, from $606 million to $894 million. Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford “This is about recognising the significant contribution our agriculture and food producers make to Victoria’s economy, and building partnerships which create jobs and investment.” “We’re bringing international investors to our doorstep and giving them a taste of what we do best.” “With increased demand for high quality food coming from Asia’s growing middle class, we’re working to realise the potential for extraordinary growth in Victoria’s food and fibre sector.” Media Contact: Georgia Brumby 0428 698 185 | georgia.brumby@minstaff.vic.gov.au