Rural
16 November, 2023
Queensland beef sizzles in Shanghai
The best of Queensland beef has been showcased in Shanghai at the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world’s largest import trade fair.
Choice cuts were prepared for canapes, sirloin beef rolls and mini wagyu burgers by world class chefs for close to 80 guests, many who attended CIIE as Queensland delegates and exhibitors as part of the state’s largest business mission to China.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk was joined in Shanghai by Queensland beef producers and exhibitors including representatives from Australian Country Choice, Meat and Livestock Australia, Austrex, King River Ag, Paradigm Foods and Queensland Food Corporation.
Queensland beef and a range of premium food products were showcased at the Taste of Queensland Reception, hosted by Trade and Investment Queensland.
The reception followed a meeting between the Premier and Shanghai Mayor His Excellency GONG Zheng and Vice Mayor His Excellency HUA Yuan.
The Premier used the meeting to discuss the successful sister-state relationship between Queensland and Shanghai and reinforce the government’s commitment to growing trade and investment with China.
Toowoomba-based Mort and Co chief executive officer, Stephen O’Brien, said China’s direct chilled beef imports have increased dramatically in the past decade, with Australia supplying the vast majority.
“We know the demand will continue to grow, and Australia is well placed to deal with growing competition in this market,” he said.
“The support from the Queensland Government and Trade Investment Queensland helps us to open new opportunities and remove current barriers to ensure China remains one of Australia’s largest chilled beef export markets.”
Australian Country Choice chief executive officer Anthony Lee said Queensland is Australia’s cattle powerhouse.
“Queensland excels in growing, value-adding and delivering the world’s best food and fibre to the global marketplace,” he said.
Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) managing director Jason Strong said showcasing the very best of Queensland’s beef is a priority for MLA and a perfect example of this was the recent Aussie Beef Mates partnership with Trade and Investment Queensland.
“Through the Aussie Beef Mates program, international chefs and food experts came to Queensland and gained deep insights into Australian beef production, empowering them to share this great story with their global networks,” he said.
“For the chefs that attended, there was no better way for them to embrace the essence of the Australian beef industry than by immersing themselves in the company of passionate Queensland producers and seeing first-hand the care and commitment that goes into producing this world-renowned beef.
