Food producers wait for Chinese markets
Pathways into Chinese markets are starting to open for Southern Forests food producers but there's still work to be done, according to the WA Government and a peak organisation for the region's industry.
Southern Forest Food Council produce coordinator John Kilrain said demand from China was creating "major opportunities" for local producers eager to export.
"We've taken a close look at opportunities there," he said.
"There's already wine going direct to China and there's interest in beef but there's still a fair bit of work to be done."
WA Agriculture Minister Ken Baston said the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement would result in reduced tariffs but not "automatic market access".
Licensing and paperwork were among the obstacles, Mr Kilrain said.
The South West Development Commission established its Bunbury-Jiaxing Business Office in 2008 to help local producers overcome barriers to trade into China.
Liaison officer Edwin Zhuang said the office could help facilitate trade partnerships, source investment opportunities and provide translation services.
Mr Kilrain said the Bunbury-Jiaxing office would "go a long way" in helping to sort issues impacting trade.
"These things will take time to sift through," he said.
"But things are in action and once you start on something, it'll just get closer."
Mr Baston said the "clean, green and safe" produce of the Southern Forests region would be welcome in the Chinese market.
"There is potential for growth in premium wine and longer-term prospects for fruits and vegetables after gaining market access," he said.
"There is also potential for beef and lamb."
