A Bundaberg Region export-ready food business will soon be entering international markets with funding assistance from the State Government to help grow its enterprise.
Agriculture Minister Mark Furner today said eight diverse food companies had received second round funding from the Growing Queensland’s Food Exports program, including Gin Gin and Dry at Gin Gin.
Cameron and Muppi Dean from Gin Gin and Dry have developed a strong following in Queensland and word must have spread, because this funding will see their business expand into Asia.
“I’m sure it won’t take long for Asia to fall in love with Gin Gin and Dry’s range of dried pineapple, mango, banana and apple,” Mr Furner said.
“Not to mention the new facility completed at the end of 2017 that increased capacity four-fold – Cameron and Muppi are ready for that next step.
“They are well on their way to becoming yet another international success story of Queensland horticulture.
“Consumers love quality produce and they know it’s found in the Sunshine State.”
Growing Queensland’s Food Exports grants support regional producers already exporting or ready to export break in to lucrative overseas markets and supply chains.
Program helps businesses to grow
The $1.3 million pilot program aims to boost Queensland’s food exports, delivering jobs and economic growth in regional areas.
“Not only is this a big win for the Wide Bay businesses, but for suppliers right across the state because with increased demand comes more jobs,” Mr Furner said.
By providing matching grants of up to $100,000, the Government is supporting producers and food businesses to improve their export competitiveness through better understanding of their markets.
“So far we’ve assisted macadamia, mango, melon, strawberry, sweet corn and pork producers to build their business capability to take advantage of opportunities to grow exports,” Mr Furner said.
The Growing Queensland’s Food Exports program focuses primarily on horticulture as Queensland is Australia’s largest producer of vegetables and the second largest producer of fruit and nuts.
More than $550,000 had already been allocated under the program.
