Trade mission helps put dairy on radar
She said there were so many opportunities for the Australian dairy industry to value add and get products into the Chinese markets.
“Let’s not sell ourselves out, we have the assets, why sell it to China. But then how do you tell a struggling dairy farmer that.
“There are 1400 dairy farmers in Gippsland and there needs to be a voice for them. China is paying a premium price for their milk and farmers here are struggling.
“Having the support of Trade Victoria has opened our eyes to the opportunities that are available,” she said.
Sallie was one of 14 business women representing a range of businesses including tea, skin care, bagels, an abattoir and wildflowers.
Trade Victoria statistics show women currently make up just 23 per cent of international trade delegates. The delegation aimed to address the under-representation of women in Victoria’s international trade industry.
Led by state Women’s Minister Natalie Hutchins, the delegation met with the Shanghai Women’s Federation, visited the Chinese Women’s and Children’s Museum, met with successful Australian women in business and heard firsthand accounts of how to break into the Chinese market.
The delegation also met with Chinese industry leaders and companies to promote Victorian women-owned businesses to the Chinese export market.
“China is one of Victoria’s most important trading partners. By encouraging the participation of Victorian women in this relationship, we’re promoting economic benefits both for women and the larger community.”
“The trade mission has been a great opportunity for the delegates to learn and make the connections they need to grow their business in China,” Ms Hutchins said.