More than 3,000 new jobs have been created for Queenslanders through companies which have been helped by Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ).
TIQ has exceeded its financial year targets, delivering $812 million in exports and more than $1.5 billion in foreign investment outcomes to the end of March 2026.
The Queensland Government reports that more than 40% of Queensland exporters are based in the regions, and three quarters of those are small and family-owned businesses. The state government assisted them in generating $341 million worth of exports, with the benefits flowing directly to the communities supported by those businesses.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates says Queensland’s reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation was translating into stronger export outcomes for small and family businesses.
“We’re on track to hit our $5 billion trade and investment milestone later this year, which is a phenomenal result so early in this term, particularly given the volatility of the global trade environment,” Bates says.
“That means thousands of Queenslanders in well-paying jobs and communities everywhere reaping the benefits of a thriving trade sector.”
Bates adds that growth in Latin America and Europe is also helping the state’s businesses diversify and expand their international reach.
“We continue to see strong results from India, China, and Southeast Asia,” she says.
“We’re also expanding our trade footprint to ensure that our exporters are well positioned to weather the challenges of the current global situation and come through the other side stronger than ever.”
Deepening Pacific ties
This news comes after the Queensland Government announced its plans to deepen Pacific partnerships to grow jobs and trade.
Under the Queensland-Pacific Trade and Investment Strategy 2026-2028, a clear pathway has been set out to grow trade, support investment, and build stronger partnerships with Pacific economies.
The strategy marks a reset, aimed at delivering the strongest outcomes in an export market worth around $3 billion annually. The strategy includes four priority markets — New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and Samoa — which accounts for more than 90% of Queensland’s trade with the Pacific.
It also focuses on priority sectors for collaboration, including food and agribusiness, education and training, infrastructure, and energy technologies.
TIQ will lead delivering the strategy, working with industry to unlock opportunities, and connect Queensland businesses with partners across the region.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Queensland Government
