It has been an historic and momentous week for Tasmania.
The eyes of the world and especially China have been fixed firmly on us, and Tasmania has shone brightly.
Tasmania’s warm welcome to the Chinese President Xi Jinping and Madame Peng Liyuan has strengthened our enduring friendship with China, our largest trading partner and source of international visitors.
The visit was followed by millions of people online and watched by hundreds of millions through news broadcasts, generating unparalleled exposure.
What was particularly special, was the Chinese President’s reflection on his visit to our state, saying it was “a very beautiful day.”
Tasmanians should be proud; we demonstrated how friendly, beautiful and abundant our state is.
The inaugural TasInvest Forum showcased an investment portfolio worth more than $2.1 billion across our competitive strengths including agriculture, viticulture, aquaculture, mining and Antarctic research.
The interest was overwhelming and Tasmanians can be optimistic this will result in major projects. The Liberal Government is working hard to turn this interest into investment to strengthen our economy and create jobs.
The Free Trade Agreement with China will unlock further opportunities for our primary producers, who have been waiting for an even playing field against competitors like New Zealand for decades.
There’s an increasing demand for our clean, fresh and safe produce, especially in China’s emerging middle-class, and this will allow our producers to compete in that market.
And, the unsolicited bid proposal has really hit home that we’re open for business by creating a framework for unique proposals, to open new opportunities, generate investment and create jobs.
On top of this, 10 Memoranda of Understanding were signed creating a range of opportunities including; cementing our reputation as the Gateway to the Antarctic, strengthening our sister city ties with the Fujian province and building on our competitive strengths like renewable energy and fruit production.
I hope that in years the come we’ll look back on the events of this week with pride in what we’ve been able to achieve.
Will Hodgman, Premier
