Queensland is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Shanghai Sister State relationship, which continues to encourage successful trade.
Merchandise exports to China increased by more than $1 billion in the three months to the end of April, compared to the same period last year.
Trade Minister Stephen Robertson made the announcement in conjunction with Shanghai Week, which wraps-up tomorrow.
"This is an outstanding result, obtained in the middle of a Global Economic Crisis, which underlines the continuing strength and importance of the Queensland - China trading relationship," Robertson says.
"It is clear evidence as to why our relationship with China is so important and why Queensland has no intention of following the protectionist type polices of another Australian state," he says.
Increasing trade between Queensland and China is high on the agenda during Shanghai Week.
Organised as part of Q150 celebrations, it features a number of events and other cultural initiatives that cover key areas under the Sister State Agreement including: agribusiness, environmental management, tourism, ICT, health, education, culture and the arts.
Robertson says
Trade Queensland has also worked closely with local industry partners in Cairns, to bring Shanghai to the north.
"World-class chef, Mr Fuhua Chen, and a delegation of journalists from major Shanghai media outlets visited Cairns earlier this week (June 21-23) to showcase tropical north Queensland's excellent food, hospitality and tourism attractions to a wide Shanghai audience,” he says.
"I take this opportunity to welcome all Chinese visitors who are in Queensland as part of Shanghai Week celebrations, and look forward to the stronger trade relationships and friendships that will be built as a result of this event."
Robertson explains it is important to acknowledge China’s position as a vital export destination for Queensland, as it helps to create and protect jobs.
"Our 20-year anniversary with Shanghai is the perfect opportunity to say the Bligh Government hopes this relationship will last another 20 years and beyond," he says.
"Queensland is committed to fostering strong economic ties with China. This continuing relationship has produced a growing exchange of goods and services, delivering benefits to both Queensland and to China."
In 2007-2008, Queensland's merchandise exports to China were valued at $2.45 billion or 6.9 percent of total merchandise exports for the State.