Australia commits to attending import expo in November

Australia today inked an agreement to attend the first China International Import Expo in November.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) and the CIIE Bureau was officially signed on Friday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).

Steven Ciobo, Minister of Trade, Tourism and Investment of Australia, said at the signing ceremony that he will lead the Australian delegation to participate in the import expo in November.

"This demonstrates our commitment to taking our bilateral trade and investment relationship to the next level," Ciobo said.

The MOU will provide further support to Australian companies to ensure they make the most of the opportunities the CIIE provides to open doors to the China market.

Until now, 84 Australian companies have committed to exhibit at the import expo, covering 3,674 square meters.

"The Australia and China Free Trade Agreement which entered into force in 2015, has made a real difference for both Chinese and Australian firms, expanding and diversifying our trade and investment relationship," Ciobo said. "The scale and timing of CIIE is therefore ideal, allowing us to further highlight and unlock the potential commercial opportunities that China's growth provides."

During his visit to Shanghai, Ciobo will also attend the SIAL China international trade fair for food and promote the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement that is "helping grow, among others, Australia's food and beverage exports."