The focus of the tour is to explore the constraints of the supply chain including cold chain infrastructure, transport and changing diets in the region and possibilities for new markets and to better understand the cultural impacts on trade.
Proposed itinerary
Participants on the tour will get to discover first-hand the drivers and specifications necessary to satisfy Middle Eastern customer requirements to help WA capture a share of this emerging market. Participants will also get an opportunity to:
- understand retail perceptions and changes to food purchase and choice in four countries
- visit and talk with wholesalers who operate in the emerging chilled, frozen and carcase markets
- view feedlots, import facilities and processing facilities
- discuss sheepmeat supply, logistics and product options with importers, processors and retailers
- visit food service and retail channels to better understand market requirements and trends of major supermarkets and food service companies
- get an insight into possibilities for new markets, like hogget meat, shipped chilled lamb and new cuts, as well as an appreciation of the cultural impacts on trade.
The tour group will also have members from the Live Export Reference Group and representatives from DPIRD and MLA.
Indicative costs
DPIRD and MLA will cover the costs of in-country accommodation, ground travel, transfers and group meals in-country. Participants are required to cover the cost of their flights to the Middle East and associated travel insurance and incidentals.
Nominations
We invite expressions of interest from processors and producers who believe they would benefit from the experience and confidently represent the WA industry in the Middle East. Successful participants will also be required to act as ‘ambassadors’ on their return to share the lessons learned with industry.
Selection criteria for producers
- Represent a large sheep production enterprise (>1000 lambs/adult annual turn off)
- Producers interested in engaging with the sheepmeat market
- Available to attend pre-tour training and participate in post–tour activities such as presenting at sheep producer forums.
How to apply
Email Mandy Curnow (mandy.curnow@dpird.wa.gov.au) before 5pm Friday, 17 January 2020 with the following details:
- contact information (name, email, phone etc)
- why you believe you would be an important addition to the tour group
- how you will extend the insights and knowledge to the sheep industry on your return
- any leadership, skills or ag advocacy work that you are currently involved in.
For more information please contact mandy.curnow@dpird.wa.gov.au.
We will contact you directly with the outcome of your nomination by 24 January 2020.