NSW: Telstra and PM use net to catch Asian buyers

AAP General News (Australia)
04-17-2000
NSW: Telstra and PM use net to catch Asian buyers

Australian primary producers are set to get a boost with a new e-commerce site aimed
at capturing more of the Asian market.

Federal agriculture minister WARREN TRUSS has launched FoodConnect Australia, a web
site directed at exporting Aussie produce to Asia.

It aims to streamline trade between Australian primary producers and the Asian market
-- which absorbs two thirds of Australia's food exports.

The site enables prospective buyers and distributors to electronically sample and gain
information about Australian produce, as well as access information on national export
and trade laws.

FoodConnect was developed by the Prime Minister's Supermarket to Asia Council and Telstra.

Mr TRUSS says he's not concerned that people in remote areas could be isolated from
e-commerce because of slow or non-existent internet access.

He was referring to Telstra's announcement last week that an extra $350 million will
be spent on upgrading regional phone lines.

AAP RTV jh/amt/smf

KEYWORD: FOODCONNECT ( SYDNEY)

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