Latest trade figures show Queensland outperforming New South Wales on the economic scoreboard as well the one at Suncorp Stadium.
Queensland’s merchandise exports are $85.2 billion over the year to April 2019 compared with New South Wales’ $53.3 billion.
That’s an increased of $41.1 billion under the Palaszczuk Government – or 93 per cent.
Once again Queensland’s merchandise exports are larger than New South Wales and Victoria combined.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is confident recent trade talks in Japan will result in even more good news with more jobs and an economic boost for Queensland, particularly in the mining sector.
The Premier said JFE Steel Group’s investments in Queensland directly employ 3,500 people and they are just one example.
“JFE is one of our biggest customers purchasing 15Mt of metallurgical coal from Queensland,” the Premier said.
“No matter the company or the product, our discussions are always about building on and expanding partnerships.
“That means more jobs for Queensland.”
Other discussions in Japan included capitalising on expanding capacity at Brisbane Airport.
In 2018, 77.3% of airfreighted exported goods was sent via Brisbane Airport which was an 11% increase on the previous year.
The Premier said the opening of a second runway next year provides scope to expand that performance even further.
“Having an airport with double its capacity – more than any other airport in Australia – gives us a huge advantage,” the Premier said.
“Having just one hour’s time difference is also a bonusfor business and tourism.
“We are working on expanding both and are hopeful of co-operation from the Federal Government.”
Queensland has 15 Trade and Investment Offices around the world.
The Tokyo office celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Other states have started opening their own in recent months.
“States like New South Wales now realise the advantage Queensland has having our producers and businesses break into new markets and grow their customers,” the Premier said.
Queensland also has Australia’s strongest April retail trade growth up .5% trend and .7% seasonally adjusted driven by an increase in spending in cafes and restaurants.
