Aussie product showcased at Australian Tourism Exchange

Today, we were pleased to open Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) inAdelaide, Australia's largest travel and tourism business-to-business event.

This year's ATE is hosted by Tourism Australia and the South AustralianTourism Commission (SATC) as their partner for 2018, attracting over 2,200delegates from across the country and more than 30 international tourismmarkets.

Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon Steven Ciobo MPwas delighted to attend Australia's most significant tourism event.

"This year's ATE has brought over 650 international tourism buyers toAustralia to meet with 540 Australian tourism products and experiences, helpingto promote tourism as a pillar of the nation's economy," the Minister said.

"Tourism employs almost 600,000 people and represents 10 per cent ofAustralia's exports. This event provides an invaluable platform to buildrelationships and connects Australia's tourism industry with the globaldistribution network," he said.

"As the host city, Adelaide will see a significant economic benefit ofapproximately $9 million and the event will help grow Australia's$100 billion tourism industry through the relationships and futurebusiness established at ATE," he said.

"In 2017, international visitor spend grew 6 per cent to $41.3 billion, andarrivals grew 7 per cent to 8.8 million, and this event can grow these figuresfurther."

SA Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment David Ridgway said that theevent was a perfect opportunity for South Australia to yet again showcase itsworld class tourism offerings on the international stage.

"South Australia has some of the most beautiful regions in the countrywhich produce the spectacular food and wine that we are renowned forworldwide," said Minister Ridgway.

"The State Liberal Government has a strong plan to grow our tourismsector and create more jobs, which includes increasing the existing EventsBid Fund to attract more events, conventions and visitors to our state.

"By hosting Australia's largest tourism business-to-businessevent here in South Australia we have a unique opportunity to connectlocal businesses with tourism opportunities that have a lasting benefit for ourstate.

"A full media programme took place in the lead up to today, involvingSouth Australian icons including Penfolds and the newly opened d'arenberg cubeand really showcased some of South Australia's best tourismofferings."

Now in its 20th year, ATE runs until 19 April at the Adelaide ConventionCentre, in partnership with Virgin Australia.

Additionally, over 80 international and Australian media are attending theATE media program. Delegates will also have the opportunity to experience moreof South Australia through the ATE familiarisation program hosted by the SATC.

The Turnbull Coalition Government recognises tourism as a major pillar ofAustralia's economy, that's why Tourism Australia has received record fundingunder the Coalition Government.