The Pacific

In 2023, the Queensland Government reinforced its presence in the region with the announcement of a $4.38 million Pacific Trade Strategy, including the appointment of a dedicated Trade Commissioner for the Pacific, Leata Alaimoana with a focus on PNG, and the Pacific Islands nations of Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Tonga, Samoa, and New Zealand.   

The goal is to unlock and grow economic partnerships and engagements to improve economies and lifestyles and build resilience across the region.

Queensland goods exports to the Pacific region were valued at over a $1 billion in 2021-2022, with Papua New Guinea the largest goods export destination to the tune of $790.1 million. Queensland’s merchandise imports from the Pacific Islands was over $2 billion in 2021-2022.  

The growth of exports trade with the Pacific increased by 24.8% and there is great opportunity to continue this growth. Whilst this is made up of traditional exports such as industrial machinery, vehicles and agriculture there is potential for innovative industries such as renewable energies, technologies and health. 

Many Queensland based businesses also operate in the Pacific across a variety of sectors including the logistics and marine industries, as well as product and service companies for important infrastructure and development projects.

These developments play a crucial role in the growth of Pacific communities providing clean water, and greater access through ports and aviation.

The deep connections between Queensland and Pacific nations are maintained through education, labour mobility, humanitarian, sporting and other community programs.

The two regions share similar priority industries and collaborate, trade and support specialised mining operations in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and New Caledonia.

And in the same way, the tourism industry in Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and Tonga.

This is a long and valued historical relationship that is more meaningful than just our geographical proximity.