Victoria is setting up a new trade office in Paris to provide greater opportunities for local businesses to export their goods and services to Europe.
Announced by the Minister for Trade and Investment, Tim Pallas, the new Victorian Government Trade and Investment office is to drive opportunities and raise the profile of Victorian businesses in Europe, particularly target sectors including life sciences, technology (edtech, sportstech and fintech), renewable energy and defence.
“Comprising one-sixth of the global economy and with an estimated nominal GDP of €16.6 trillion, the European Union is one of the world’s economic superpowers and a key trade partner for Victoria,” Mr Pallas said.
“The office will also be working to attract new investment from Europe back into Victoria, helping to grow our State’s economy and create more local jobs,” he said.
“The new Paris presence will take the State’s Trade and Investment network to 24 offices around the globe.
Mr Pallas said former Chief Executive of Global Victoria, Gönül Serbest was appointed the State’s new Commissioner for Europe from 1 February.
He said in her position as CEO of Global Victoria, Ms Serbest oversaw the Government’s network of international Trade and Investment offices and led the largest ever series of Victorian trade missions into global markets.
“Our new office in Paris will increase Victoria’s presence in the vital European market, creating more opportunities for businesses and growing Victorian jobs,” the Minister said.
“Victorian businesses are leaders in manufacturing and innovation, and our trade and investment network is helping to get their products in front of overseas buyers and investors.”
