May 11, 2017
Moffatdale Ridge Winery and five other Wide Bay Burnett businesses are taking local produce onto the world’s stage in Hong Kong.
Moffatdale Ridge, Australian Seafood, Dicky Bill Australia, Gin Gin & Dry, Lee Fishing Company, and Ohana Winery and Exotic Fruits are co-exhibiting as part of the Queensland Government’s booth at HOFEX, Asia’s premier food and hospitality trade show.
Treasurer Curtis Pitt said it was the first trade mission under the new Queensland Trade and Investment Strategy.
“HOFEX is a biennial food and beverage trade show targeting the hospitality and food sector that attracts over 40,000 buyers from Hong Kong, China, and north-east Asian markets,” Mr Pitt said.
“As part of the new strategy, the State Government committed to helping more Queensland companies into overseas markets through key showcase events.
“HOFEX is the first of these.”
Mr Pitt said HOFEX was a fantastic opportunity to showcase Queensland’s processed food, seafood, functional food, wine and beverage products to key importers, buyers, supermarkets and food servicing companies.
“Queensland has a reputation for producing a range of premium foods and beverages in a clean, green and safe environment which is why demand for our products continues to grow, particularly in Asia.”
In total, delegates from 22 Queensland companies are participating in the mission, which runs from May 8-13.
Eleven companies, including five from the Wide Bay Burnett, will continue on to Taiwan after HOFEX concludes to explore further business opportunities with prospective Taiwanese buyers.
Moffatdale Ridge Winery owner Jason Kinsella is also president of the South Burnett Wine Industry Association (SBWIA).
Last year he announced a plan to explore trade links between the South Burnett’s wine industry and Hong Kong, to capitalise on Wellcamp Airport’s weekly freight flights between Toowoomba and Hong Kong.
In January this year, the SBWIA co-hosted a three day visit from leading Hong Kong wine expert Nelson Siu to generate awareness of the region in the densely populated island province.
Mr Kinsella said he was committed to opening up an export market for the South Burnett’s wineries, and his appearance at HOFEX was another step in the process.
