Exports to feed Asia demand

FOOD sector businesses in Greater Dandenong stand to “thrive” under a new export plan.
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Gordon Rich-Phillips said the new Food to Asia Action Plan would deliver a more profitable food sector and create new and sustainable jobs in the region.
“The plan provides an opportunity for local businesses and producers to take advantage of the rapid growth of Asia’s consumer class and their requirement for premium food and beverages,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.
He said the $35.4 million State Government plan would drive Victoria’s long-term growth as demand from Asia grew.
It’s set to strengthen representation of Victoria’s food sector in Asian markets and focus research and development investments on food that meets Asian consumer preferences.
Mr Rich-Phillips said Popina in Dandenong South was already investing in new technology and boosting productivity and export capacity to Asia.
Popina specialises in mueslis, cereals and snack bars, employs 85 staff and has more than 25 years’ experience.
A $1.2 million project to consolidate two production lines into a single highly efficient operation is almost complete and will increase productivity and export potential.
“Popina was awarded an Investing in Manufacturing Technology grant of $250,000 in 2012 towards this project, that will see the installation of an in-line blending station and an upgrade and standardisation of the bagging equipment,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.
He said the State Government provided Popina a $2000 grant to help it take part in last year’s Hofex China Trade Mission.
“This resulted in $220,000 of business which is great news for the company, the local community the Victorian economy,” he said.