The Queensland Government will undertake a major trade mission to South Korea and Japan to strengthen economic ties and attract new investment into the state’s resources and manufacturing sectors.
Led by minister for natural resources and mines Dale Last, the mission sets out to showcase Queensland’s capabilities in mining, critical minerals, and advanced manufacturing to key industry leaders and potential investors.
Last said the mission underscores Queensland’s commitment to economic growth and job creation, particularly in industries seen as vital to the state’s future prosperity. South Korea and Japan remain two of Queensland’s most significant trading partners, with both countries among the state’s top export markets.
“The resources sector is the lifeblood of our economy. We need guaranteed investment and trade with our strategic partners to secure these industries’ operations well into the future,” Last said.
“This trade mission is about creating renewed trade opportunities for Queensland, supporting local jobs, and the transfer of industry leading knowledge back to our local workforce.”
The delegation will also highlight Queensland’s Train Manufacturing Program in Maryborough, positioning the state as a hub for advanced manufacturing and emphasising its competitiveness after recent cost and planning challenges.
“This trade mission also presents an opportunity to showcase our State’s manufacturing capabilities, including meetings with key partners for the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program,” Last said.
“The Crisafulli Government has put the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program back on track, and with train manufacturing in Maryborough starting this year, we’re focussed on building upon the strategic partnerships to drive further investment across Queensland.”
The trade mission delegation departed on Saturday, with meetings scheduled across both countries in coming days.