Brisbane 26 September 2013. Tokyo: Queensland Premier Campbell Newman has today arrived in Japan to build on Queensland’s well established trade relationships in the region.

Mr Newman, who was invited as part of a Guest of Government program, said Japan was considered to be one of Queensland’s most reliable and important trading partners.

“The reality is that Japan’s long-term commitment to our state has let us develop, grow, and create a suite of world-class resources, education, tourism, agricultural and construction industries,” Mr Newman said.

“Queensland’s two-way merchandise trade with Japan has grown by more than 50 per cent over the past decade, and is now valued at $12.9 billion in 2012/13.

“Japan now buys almost half of Queensland’s fresh beef exports and nearly $5 billion worth of coal every year.

“Japan also accounts for 11 per cent of foreign investment in Queensland and is still one of Queensland’s top five tourism markets.”

During his visit Mr Newman will meet with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and sign a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Japan Oil Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC).

“The combined investment potential of organisations such as JBIC and JOGMEC is staggering,” Mr Newman said.

“The fact that Japan is showing such strong interest in investing in Queensland is proof of the strong relationship that has been building between our regions for decades.

“The Queensland Government is working hard to pave the way for more exploration and development of Queensland’s industries and our trade relationships, which will underpin the State’s economy for decades to come.”

The Premier returns to Queensland on Tuesday 1 October.