Strengthening Trade Relations and Opportunities

The Australian Embassy with the Department of Primary Industry Victoria are working together to promote Victoria’s finest food and beverage products in tonight’s “Naturally Victorian Chef’s Dinner” at the Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta.

The event will be opened by the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Bill Farmer, and attended by over 80 leading chefs and professionals from across Jakarta.

A buffet dinner using the finest Victorian products as the main ingredients will be prepared by Four Season’s Executive Chef, Vindex Tengker.

Indonesia’s close proximity to Australia, growing affluence and sophistication in food and beverage choices makes it a very important market for Australia’s food and beverage producers.

“The Australian food and beverage industry is recognised worldwide for its variety, high quality, natural growing conditions, innovative manufacturing and packaging technologies,” said Ambassador Farmer.

Australia’s strict Halal certification requirements have made Australia the major supplier of meat products to Indonesia, including during the Ramadan and Lebaran period when demand is high.

“Tonight’s event will strengthen trade relationships and opportunities between Indonesia and Australia in the food and beverage sector,” he said.

Australia’s merchandise trade to Indonesia in 2007/08 was valued at more than A$3.9 billion, with A$869 million from the food and beverage sector.

“This Australian product promotion will be a good opportunity for Australian exporters to meet and discuss potential trade activity with their Indonesian counterparts and, ultimately, will benefit the Indonesian consumer,” said Ambassador Farmer.

Victoria is one of Australia’s leading agricultural and food production states and is well known for its high quality food and beverages products exported to discerning consumers worldwide.

Media Enquiries:
Jenny Dee Counsellor (Public Affairs) tel. (021) 2553 5290 mob. 0811 187 3175