The luncheon was hosted by Mr Tim Dillon, Commissioner - Great China Chief Representative of Victoria State Government. The Premier Andrews made a speech. He has outlined the Government’s plan to re-establish Victoria as Australia’s leading state for renewable energy, with $200 million new investment in renewable energy and a commitment to reduce emissions by 20 per cent by 2020, backed by Victorian Government procurement of up to 100MW of renewable energy. Growing trade links with China have helped consolidate Victoria’s position as a globally recognised centre for high quality food production capabilities and Australia’s leading producer of high quality grass feed beef and lamb. The state accounts for more than 30 per cent of Australia’s food production, and more than 80 per cent of Australia’s total dairy exports. In response to soaring international demand, Victoria is looking to significantly boost production capacity for dairy, meat and horticultural production. Victoria’s strong and diverse economy has ensured the state remains a leader in services, agribusiness, logistics, biotechnology, information and communication technologies, research and development, international education, and tourism sectors. The Premier has unveil his vision for a landmark China Strategy that recognizes the critical role that Chinese investment and collaboration will play in guaranteeing Victoria’s future prosperity.
Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr. Zhang Lei, then reviewed the 36 years’ ‘sister state’ relationship between Jiangsu and Victoria. The two-way exchange in economic and cultural areas has led to positive results, which encourages Jiangsu enterprises to invest in Victoria and keep friendly communication. About 60 guests attended this high-profile luncheon. The host organisations and guests have carried out an exchange of view about investment exchange. They all looked forward to further exchange activities between Victoria as well as Australia and China, especially with the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement coming into effect soon.
After the luncheon, a separate meeting was arranged by Holding Redlich for its Chinese client, the chairman of Shanghai Zhongfu Group, Mr. Hu Peiyi, to meet with Premier Andrew and his Cabinet members. They had a discussion about setting up the Australian headquarter of Zhongfu’s ‘Australian Green Food Outlet’ in Melbourne. The premier extended a warm welcome to Mr. Hu, expecting him to visit Melbourne in November this year with his team to facilitate the plan of promoting Victorian and Australian foods. Both sides are highly confident with the project of foods exported from Australia to China.
Author：Alan Yang
Director of China Practice Group of Holding Redlich
