QUEENSLAND is launching a new global marketing push for exports of farm products, building on its success in expanding horticultural markets in Asia.
Primary Industries Minister Tim Mulherin said the three-year Asian Markets for Horticulture Initiative had met with success, including the first shipments of Queensland mangoes and honey murcott mandarines to China.
"Now we are going bigger with a new campaign - the Global Markets Initiative - that will promote a range of products, not just horticulture, and it will focus not just on Asia but also Europe, America, the UK and the Middle East," Mr Mulherin said.
Agriculture is Queensland's second largest export industry, with food and fibre exports valued at around $6.1 billion a year.
"We want to now help producers expand their opportunities by looking even further afield," Mr Mulherin said.
"For example, Europe has been identified as a key market due to our counter-seasonal production and new technology that is making sea freight of fresh produce a more viable option for exporters.
"Our advantage is that we have a diverse climate which allows us to supply products worldwide at times when other markets are out of season."
Current projects include shipments of mangoes to China, Europe, the Middle East and Singapore; avocados to Europe and south-east Asia; and identifying priority markets for Queensland's expanding macadamia industry.
AAP
