Bangkok trade mission a chance for Great Southern producers to break into new international market

Products from the region have once again been put on the show internationally in the Great Southern Development Commission’s latest outbound trade mission.

The mission to Bangkok began with a VIP tasting event at Michelin star restaurant Baan Tepa featuring a menu of Great Southern and Margaret River produce paired with tastings of premium wines, spirits and beers.

Among the VIPs were Australia’s ambassador to Thailand, international media, Thai influencers, premium retailers and WA producers.

Futari Wagyu, Great Southern Truffles, Harvest Road – Leeuwin Coast, Harvey Beef and Wide Open Agriculture representatives were joined by representatives from 12 wineries, Giniversity, Limeburners and Boston Brewing.

Great Southern Development Commission acting chief executive Jarrad Gardner said the region’s produce had unique qualities that made for a natural pairing with the Thai market.

“We have a strong understanding of our Great Southern food and beverage product’s point of difference,” he said.

“Our products are known for their high quality, artisanal heritage, unique attributes and clean, green and safe provenance.

“The Thai market values premium quality in both food and beverages.”

A day after the tasting event, producers conducted retail visits and were provided with valuable insight into the market from industry and trade bodies.

A wine and beverage showcase attended by more than 100 trade representatives brought the mission to a close.

It set the stage for buyers to connect one-on-one with producers in promising discussions to potentially establish deals.

The GSDC and industry partners are preparing for an inbound trade mission next month.

In the past year, more than 40 buyers from 13 different countries have visited the Great Southern as part of these trade initiatives, with a further two international media delegations experiencing the best of Great Southern food, wine and tourism.

A major outbound mission to Singapore paved the way for the Thailand mission with eight out of the nine Great Southern wineries in attendance receiving new or improved distribution partnerships as a result.