Queensland councils set sights on new era of business with Asia
Queensland councils are preparing to capitalise on dynamic and competitive Asian markets after arming themselves with a new training tool.
The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has teamed up with Asialink Business to provide a comprehensive program aimed at helping councils to navigate the delicate cultural differences involved in international business negotiations.
Building strong relationships is critical to developing strong ties between Queensland’s cities and towns and overseas markets.
LGAQ chief executive Greg Hallam says the LGAQ has ensured the programs will support Queensland local governments to expand and nurture new partnerships and commercial links at the community-level throughout Asia.
“The programs will provide practical information and advice for mayors, elected representatives and executive staff looking to build strong relationships in Asia, and to help ensure communities across Queensland seize the opportunities that Asia presents.”
“ These programs provide an invaluable opportunity for mayors and council CEOs to get real-world advice, develop a pan-Asian perspective and understand the cultural differences across this diverse region, and hear directly from industry experts.”
As part of their innovative partnership, Asialink Business will deliver a series of workshops to mayors, councillors and executive council staff across Queensland, commencing in July 2018.
Asialink Business Chairman, Mr Andrew Robb AO, says Queensland has much to offer Asia.
Queensland’s top five export partners are in Asia, tourists from Asian countries contributed more than $2 billion to Queensland’s economy in 2017, and around 50,000 international students from Asia chose Queensland to further their education.
Building strong relationships and trust is at the core of doing business successfully with Asia.
“We all know in our own towns and in our own regions that linkages and relationships are fundamental to building business and strong communities - Well, the same is true between countries.
“Leaders in our regional areas, and leaders across Australia, have a big responsibility to build relationships necessary to engage in a productive and peaceful manner with [Asia],” Mr Robb says.
Asialink Business CEO, Mukund Narayanamurti, says the LGAQ program has been custom-designed to help local mayors and their Councils develop vital skills for doing business with Asia.
“Having detailed knowledge of the cultural nuances that drive the business decisions of Asian partners, government stakeholders or potential investors is critical.
“This forward-looking partnership with the LGAQ is a model for other local governments around Australia.”