14 January 2008

Trade Minister to visit India

In recognition of Australia’s strengthening relationship with India, I will visit Mumbai and New Delhi from 15-19 January. 

India’s continuing economic rise means that it is increasingly important to Australia. 

India is Australia’s fastest growing major market for both goods and services – increasing at a rapid rate of more than 30 percent a year. 

India is already the fourth largest market for the export of Australian goods. 

The Government is committed to taking our growing commercial relationship with India to a higher level. 

There is great potential for Australian business in the Indian market across the major sectors of the economy. 

During the visit I will pursue a range of trade policy issues in meetings with Indian Ministers, including the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Hon Kamal Nath; Minister for Finance, the Hon P Chidambaram; Minister for Agriculture, the Hon Sharad Pawar; and the Minister for Science and Technology, the Hon Kapil Sibal. 

At these discussions I will press for progress in the Doha Round, with India being one of the key players in the WTO. 

The joint study into a free trade agreement between Australia and India will be discussed.  A key objective will be to enhance the economic partnership to our mutual benefit.

I will meet with key Indian business leaders, including Mr Ratan Tata, Chairman of Tata Sons, and members of the Australian business community in India. 

I will address a major conference focusing on Australia’s key trade priority, a successful outcome to the Doha Round of trade negotiations and I will deliver a speech to the Mumbai Chamber of Commerce. 

I will also take the opportunity to open Australia’s new High Commission building in New Delhi.

Media Inquiries: Mr Crean's office 02 6277 7420 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555