Premier Jeremy Rockliff will lead a short trade, investment and cultural mission to Thailand and Japan over the next week, with a key focus on promoting Tasmania as a destination for investment, jobs and economic growth.
The visit comes as the Tasmanian Government continues discussions with Kirin regarding the future of the Boag’s Brewery site in Launceston.
Premier Rockliff will meet directly with senior Kirin executives as part of the mission.
“Face-to-face engagement is always valuable, and these discussions will ensure Tasmania’s interests, our workers and future opportunities for Northern Tasmania remain front of mind,” Premier Rockliff said.
“The brewery is of significant importance to Launceston, and we want to ensure the strategic site is put to its best possible use going forward.”
While in Thailand, the Premier will meet with major corporate and investment leaders, including representatives from Dutch Mill, Six Senses and the Mall Group, alongside engagements with the Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce.
“Growing the economy is a key priority under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, because a stronger economy creates jobs, supports communities and helps fund the essential services Tasmanians rely on.
“Every new export opportunity, every new investment and every strengthened international partnership helps build a stronger Tasmania.
“Companies such as Dutch Mill have already demonstrated confidence in Tasmania through investment in our agricultural and food processing sectors, supporting jobs and economic activity in regional Tasmania.
“We are always looking for opportunities to attract new investment into Tasmania and create stronger pathways for our exporters.”
Premier Rockliff said the mission was also about promoting Tasmania’s growing pipeline of tourism and hospitality investment opportunities.
“As Tasmania continues to strengthen its visitor economy, there are significant opportunities for high-quality tourism and hotel investments across the State.
“Major projects, including opportunities associated with Macquarie Point and the continued growth of Northern Tasmania’s visitor economy, demonstrate the confidence we have in Tasmania’s future and the opportunities available for long-term investors.”
The Japan program will also include meetings with senior leaders from AEON Top Valu, Blue Link, JABCC and Tokyo Gas, as well as defence officials, supporting Tasmania’s growing reputation for premium food and beverage production, agriculture, innovation and advanced manufacturing.
Tasmania’s exports are up 8.9 per cent year on year, and the State’s reputation for premium food and beverage production, agriculture, innovation and advanced manufacturing continues to grow.
“Japan remains one of Tasmania’s most important international partners and a key market for Tasmanian products.
“A number of the businesses we are visiting as part of the trade mission have strong ties to Tasmania, including established facilities at Smithton, Powranna and across Tasmania.
“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are backing Tasmanian exporters to diversify and grow; deliver more international investment into our State; and create opportunities for Tasmanian businesses.”
The mission will support a significant cultural partnership announcement, further strengthening Tasmania’s international profile.
“Tasmania’s cultural and creative sectors are increasingly important contributors to our economy, attracting visitors, investment and global attention.
“Building stronger international cultural partnerships helps drive tourism, enhance our global reputation and create opportunities that support economic growth right across the State.”
The Premier will depart on Wednesday, 8 July, and return on Tuesday, 14 July.
