Wine Industry

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (14:27): My question is to the Minister for Trade and Investment. Can the minister please update the council about how South Australia's wine industry is engaging with international markets during COVID-19 travel restrictions?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade and Investment) (14:27): I thank the honourable member for her keen interest in our wine sector. Of course, she comes from the Riverland, one of our largest wine producing regions. We know that our wine credentials are among the very best in the world. In fact, we have a particularly proud history, with 18 distinct wine regions, producing 80 per cent of the nation's premium wine and 50 per cent of all bottled wine.

Wine is a significant export for this state and, pre COVID-19, second only to international education in value. Ensuring our world-class wine continues to be exported into existing and new markets, particularly as the industry has been impacted by COVID-19, is a key focus for the Marshall Liberal government. It is for this reason that the Department for Trade and Investment has been digitally engaging with international wine markets.

In late May and early June, we held two dedicated wine webinars: one to Hong Kong and one to China. These webinars were held with local importers, retailers, distributors and market professionals to discuss consumer interests and buying behaviour post COVID-19, as well as observations on the supply chain and new opportunities.

Almost two weeks ago, I was proud to have the opportunity to open the Barossa virtual masterclass with Taiwan. Organised by the Barossa Grape and Wine Association, in partnership with the Department for Trade and Investment and Austrade, the masterclass was a perfect example of our government engaging digitally with international markets.

Taiwan is in the top 15 countries for South Australian wine exports. Our industry sends almost 400,000 litres, or about $10 million worth of wine, into the Taiwanese market annually. There are significant opportunities to increase exports into Taiwan, and events such as the masterclass offer a unique way to strengthen those relationships.

Twenty-five Taiwanese media representatives, influencers and wine professionals took part in the event in Taipei and were guided through a tasting of some nine iconic South Australian wines by the equally iconic winemakers. Firstly, we had Mr Peter Gago of Penfolds. I took the opportunity to send our best wishes from the government benches to his wife, former minister here and good egg in the Labor Party, Gail Gago, who hasn't enjoyed the best of health in recent times. I said that from this side of the chamber we send her our very best wishes. Also, Mr Ian Hongell from Torbreck Vintners and Mr Ben Glaetzer of Glaetzer Wines hosted the event together, showcasing three of their best wines each.

It was a rare opportunity to have all three winemakers in South Australia at the same time and it was the perfect opportunity to showcase the very best of South Australian wine into an exciting growth market. The demand for South Australian wine has never been stronger and I am pleased that our department continues to find new and innovative ways to connect with existing customers and establish new relationships. I would like to thank the winemakers for taking the time to be part of such a fantastic event, as well as Mr James March from the Barossa Grape and Wine Association for facilitating it.