28 November 2001

New export guides navigate Asian seafood markets.

Under-utilised Seafood to Asia and Asian Events and Culture aim to take some of the mystery out of exporting seafood to Asia.

The first publication, Under-utilised Seafood to Asia - a guide for Australian seafood exporters is targeted at fishers and processors who want to start exporting or are interested in learning more about exporting to Asia.

Co-author and DPI Rural Trade Officer, Eliza Wilson, said the publication included detailed in-market information, export advice, and case studies. It identified market opportunities for selected under-utilised seafood in Asia and also included a comprehensive list of key contacts.

"The guide will prove to be an extremely useful reference tool for anyone initiating an export strategy to Asia or any other country and for those who are looking to expand their seafood export portfolio," Miss Wilson said.

The second publication, Asian Events and Culture - a guide for Australian seafood exporters, links seafood consumption with the various cultural and social events that occur in ten Asian countries. A four-year calendar of events (2002-2005) identifies all public holidays and significant events for each country and provides a concise reference for seafood exporters.

DPI principal investigator and senior marketing officer, Tony Onley, said: "This new publication will help seafood operators to make more informed decisions about exports to the culturally diverse markets of Asia."

The guides are a joint initiative of the DPI and the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation. The Under-utilised Seafood to Asia guide costs $44 and the Asian Events and Culture guide is $33. They are available from Seafood Services Australia, phone 1300 130 321.

Media note: Seafood Directions 2001 will be held at the Sheraton Hotel, Brisbane, beginning at 10 am tomorrow (29 November).

Further information: Tony Onley 07 3406 8585 or 0409 346934
Media contact Lisa Connors 07 3224 7757