Media release

WA’s winemakers encouraged to meet new international buyers touring WA in April

15 March 2010

The Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) in conjunction with the South West and Great Southern Development Commissions, is hosting a group of international wine buyers from eight export markets, and is calling for expressions of interest from Western Australian wineries wishing to be included in the tour’s itinerary.

The trade tour, supported by Austrade and Tradestart, is designed to help open new doors for Western Australia’s wine growers from all regions. Events will be held in Perth, Great Southern, Pemberton and Margaret River.

SBDC Acting Managing Director Ms Jacky Finlayson, says the buyers’ group, from Taiwan, Malaysia, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Hong Kong, China and Vietnam, will be tasting wines in Perth before travelling to the South West and Great Southern regions.

“We are calling for wine makers to register their interest now, to enable the buyers to familiarise themselves with participating wineries ahead of the tour,” Ms Finlayson said.

“Many Western Australian wines are already well known around the world, but this is a great opportunity for our State’s wine makers to explore new export markets.”

TradeStart Export Advisors Alison Naylor and Mike O’Donnell from the SBDC expect the tour to be well supported by local wineries.

“We are looking forward to showcasing Western Australian wines, particularly from export ready producers interested in those markets,” Ms Naylor said.

“Finding new overseas markets and meeting potential buyers can be difficult for newcomers, so we are pleased to have this opportunity to help facilitate the introductions.”

Any wineries wishing to be included in this tour should contact the Small Business Development Corporation on 131 BIZ (131249) or Alison Naylor direct on 9220 0217.

Media contact: Di Graham (08) 9220 0218 or 0409 089 159.

More media releases from 2010 | Media Centre Home