Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Trade) Share this | Hansard source

Industry has seized the opportunities created by our partnership with China, by the leadership of our government in getting the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement done. Industry has opened up trade, seeing some 22 per cent growth in two-way trade last year. Our exports of wine, milk powder and skin-care products more than doubled. Our nickel exports more than quadrupled. Exports of lobster and table grapes grew eightfold. All of this translates into economic opportunities for Australian businesses and employment opportunities that secure the prosperity of Australian families.

Tasmanian business Hellyers Road Distillery produces quality whiskies that they export to over 20 countries. Their product has become Australia's biggest selling overseas whisky. They have embraced the opportunity of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement. They say: 'There is no doubt that the free trade agreements have facilitated the increased number of inquiries from Asia. Thanks to the FTAs, we have been able to build up several Asian contacts that we are now building relationships with, creating more opportunities in Tasmania.' (Time expired)