Victoria celebrates 25 years in the Middle East

Governor of Victoria recognises the special occasion with visit to the region

Dubai, UAE – March 14, 2022: The Honourable Linda Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria, is in Dubai to highlight the strong trade, tourism and business links that have been established with the Middle East region over the past 25 years.

The Australian state set up its Victorian Government Trade and Investment (VGTI) office in 1997 to drive trade and investment links with the region. Since establishing its presence in Dubai, Victoria’s annual exports to the Middle East have grown to AUD$1.1 billion.

Meat, grains, dairy and prepared food are among the most important Victorian exports to the Middle East region. Over the past four financial years (2017/18 – 2020/21) Victoria has exported to the region:

• over AUD$2.1 billion of meat products
• over AUD$314 million of grain products
• over AUD$325 million of dairy products
• over AUD$243 million of prepared food products

As part of the visit, the Governor is involved in a series of events, activations, and stakeholder meetings to drive awareness of Victoria’s commitment to the region and world class products and services.

“The Middle East region is an important partner for Victoria,” said the Governor.

“We have established strong bonds built on trust and mutual understanding, and for 25 years now our relationship has brought many mutual benefits. We can only see this going from strength to strength in the coming years as we continue to harness the many opportunities that exist across key sectors and industries.”

She added: “Victoria was in fact one of the earliest states in Australia to recognise the importance of the region and hence why our state was the first to set up an office here. We are deeply proud of the long-standing impact that decision has brought over the years.”

The Governor, a strong supporter of women in business, attended International Women’s Day events including a session that celebrated women in sport and women in leadership at Expo 2020 Dubai.

The Victorian Government is proudly the Platinum Partner of the Australian Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai.

International engagement drives Victoria’s economy, generating output and contributing vital income, investment and jobs. World Expo 2020 Dubai has provided Victoria with an unprecedented opportunity to reach the world.

“Victoria’s trade with countries from the Middle East is underpinned by strong people to people links and meaningful relationships,” said Gönül Serbest, CEO, Global Victoria.

“Our strong presence at Expo 2020 Dubai reflects the long-standing and ongoing commitment we have to the region, developed over 25 years. For Victoria, the Expo has been an opportunity not only to reconnect to the Middle East region, but to re-connect with global economies and communities, and extend Victoria’s reach.”