In 2020, Food & Fibre Gippsland was awarded a $200,000 grant to assist farmers with trade market access into Asia, Middle East, United States, European Union and the UK.

PASE is the acronym for ‘Package Assisting Small Exporters’.

A federal government investment to help drive export opportunities, the Gippsland PASE project was aimed at small to medium exporters, with a focus on providing and sharing market intelligence, and helping producers target new supply chains and marketing channels.

Small to medium exporters of dairy, fish, eggs, grain, plant, horticulture, meat and animal products have benefited from the project, which has assisted producers to overcome market access barriers.

Using market intelligence and analysis, Food & Fibre Gippsland examined barriers in a range of target markets, with a focus on sharing export market information and experiences.

One of the aims of the project was for Gippsland producers to be able to increase their participation in export through applying market knowledge, selecting suitable supply chains and understanding product suitability.

Trade is one of seven themes in the Federal Government's Ag2030 plan and the PASE program was an important component in developing foundations to help industry move towards its $100 billion in farm gate by the 2030 target.

Agriculture, fisheries and forestry are driving forces of the Gippsland economy, supporting thousands of jobs directly and indirectly. Collectively, these industries contribute billions to local communities.

As a result of the PASE project, support for the region's small to medium exporters in establishing or expanding their customer base overseas has helped their businesses to grow. This in turn has a positive impact on local jobs and is strengthening the regional economy.

The above information outlines one of our past programs undertaken to support the food and fibre sector. We continue to seek new and innovative ways to foster success and prosperity within our industry.

If you have any questions about our previous or current projects, please contact us via email: info@foodandfibregippsland.com.au.