The State Government of Victoria is celebrating 20 years of trade, tourism and investment links with the Middle East region.

The Australian state set up its Victorian Government Business Office (VGBO) in 1997 to drive trade and investment links with the region, which two decades later has seen Victoria's annual exports to the Middle East and North Africa region grow to $1.85 billion. Over a 10 year-long period (2006-2016), Victoria's total exports into the MENA region was valued at $21.76 billion.

“Victoria has had a long-standing and ongoing commitment to the MENA region which has been established through a sense of deep trust and a mutually beneficial relationship that has been harnessed for 20 years,” said John Butler, Commissioner for the State Government of Victoria in the Middle East, Africa and Turkey.

“There are many countries in the Mena region that have played a vital role in the Victorian economy as both a source of imports and as an export destination. We can only see our relationship strengthening further as we grow even closer together and develop the successful two-way collaboration between Victoria and the region.”

Through a variety of programmes and business initiatives, the VGBO has assisted Victorian exporters and provided assistance to Middle East, African and Turkish companies and organisations to source products and services, business introductions and investment opportunities with Victoria.

TOURISM AND AVIATION LINKS

Tourism and aviation links between Victoria and the region have been enhanced over the years, with Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways all flying daily to Melbourne.

Emirates Airline has a long-term relationship with Melbourne, having sponsored the famous Collingwood Football Club and the Emirates Melbourne Cup, the flagships among a portfolio of key partnerships in the state.

Etihad Airways also has a strong connection with Melbourne, which is home to Australia’s Etihad Stadium and has seen the UAE’s national carrier become the lead sponsor of Melbourne City Football Club.

“With a vibrant arts scene, a passion for great food and Australia’s leading sporting events, it’s no surprise that Victoria is known for its amazing tourism experiences,” said Butler.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Victoria also offers a highly skilled and innovative workforce across a range of industries, including world-class capabilities in biotechnology and life sciences, carbon trading, automotive, aerospace, defence and ICT.

“Equally, Victoria is a significant destination for MENA exporters and investors,” said Butler. With direct daily flights into our capital city Melbourne, and a reputation for leadership in Islamic banking, Victoria is an attractive destination for prospective investors into our great state.”