The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to working with Tasmanian businesses to secure new opportunities to grow and create jobs.
Over the last several days I have hosted a Tasmanian manufacturing delegation to Thailand, which included representatives of 10 local companies and Burnie Mayor Anita Dow.
This visit was focused on exploring future opportunities with Caterpillar following the company’s decision to concentrate its manufacturing of underground mine machinery in Thailand.
Importantly, the delegation was also able to see the significant potential for new partnerships and alliances with existing Thai-based, Australian-owned businesses.
Caterpillar was genuinely encouraging of Tasmanian businesses continuing to play a role in supporting its operations, and the experience was valuable for all parties in better understanding respective capabilities, challenges and opportunities.
The Australian Ambassador, the Australian Trade Commissioner and key business chambers were all very supportive of our efforts to explore trading opportunities to Thailand and to the wider Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) region.
I have great optimism for these potential trading opportunities in the ASEAN region, along with ongoing supply to Caterpillar and the advanced manufacturing sector in Tasmania generally.
The Government will bring the delegation together upon return to the State to provide ongoing support and to maximise these opportunities to help grow our economy and create new jobs.
Jeremy Rockliff, Deputy Premier
