- Published:
- Sunday 26 June 2016
Victoria’s world class medical technology and pharmaceutical industry will be on show today to more than 400 high level Chinese delegates at a major new complementary medicine conference in Melbourne.
The Andrews Labor Government recognises there is a growing demand globally for complementary medicine and is backing the expo to provide an opportunity for Victoria to showcase its expertise and generate new investment and export opportunities.
China is one of Victoria’s most important relationships and our largest trading partner, with two-way trade between Victoria and China valued at over $20.4 billion and exports reaching $6.5 billion last year.
Health is an important sector for the economy, with annual exports from the Victorian health care and life sciences sectors amounting to around $2.5 billion.
As the undisputed leader for medical technology and pharmaceuticals in Australia, Victoria is perfectly placed to boost health exports and cater to the strong demand for complementary medicines from our fast growing Asian neighbours.
Melbourne is already home to more than 20 pharmaceutical manufacturers producing a variety of products for international markets using advanced manufacturing technologies, including traditional pharmaceuticals, vitamins and supplements.
The Labor Government is working hard to help Victorian companies in the medical technology, pharmaceuticals and health sectors to grow and create more local jobs through our Future Industries Fund.
The conference is being organised in collaboration with the Australia China Business Council Victoria, the Australia China Business and Commerce Association and the Chinese Medical Pharmaceutical Material Association.
The Expo will run until June 28 at the Pullman Hotel in Albert Park with more than 400 Chinese delegates and more than 100 Australian delegates attending.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“Demand for complementary medicine is growing quickly in our region and the Andrews Labor Government is working hard to make sure we win a bigger share of the market.”
“This Expo is an important opportunity to generate new investment and export opportunities for Victoria’s medical technology and pharmaceuticals industry.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business, Trade and Investment Philip Dalidakis
"As the undisputed leader for medical technologies and pharmaceuticals in Australia, it is appropriate that the first ever China-Australia Complementary Health Products Expo is held here in Melbourne. This platform will help Victorian businesses network and further strengthen ties with our most important trading partner."
Quotes attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Medical Research Frank McGuire
“Victoria is known around the world for its expertise in medical research and pharmaceuticals and there are great opportunities for us to develop and manufacture more complementary medicines for sale into Asian markets.”