The Export Council of Australia would like to congratulate the finalists announced for the 2017 Premier of Queensland’s Export Awards. As exporters from across the state compete for 12 industry categories the program celebrates business excellence in international trade. Chief Executive Officer for the Export Council of Australia (ECA) Lisa McAuley says “The QLD Export Awards are about rewarding businesses that have shown a commitment and determination to grow their global business and who, against adversity, seek new innovative ways to compete on the international stage,” Ms McAuley said. “The competition is extremely tough and we are thrilled to see a number of new names recognised for their tremendous efforts. It’s fantastic to also see the diversity of the companies that entered the awards this year. “To acknowledge and celebrate the success of Queensland companies is an important part of encouraging more companies to think global and this year at the awards ceremony we will be celebrating and recognising the great opportunities emerging for Queensland companies in Latin America. As Australia enters negotiations over a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Pacific Alliance, an excellent opportunity emerges to place these countries top-of-mind among Australian companies evaluating new market and diversification opportunities. These negations come at an opportune moment given numerous positive developments in the Australia-Latin America relationship. We look forward to a great event that recognises our QLD champions and looks at the new growth opportunities for the state this in this important region,” Ms McAuley said. The awards ceremony will be held on Thursday 19 October at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Southbank with both the Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, Premier of Queensland, Minister for the Arts and the Honourable Curtis Pitt, Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Trade & Investment as guests of honour. The 2017 Premier of Queensland’s Export Awards finalists are: AGRIBUSINESS  BUSINESS SERVICES  CREATIVE INDUSTRIES DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES E-COMMERCE EDUCATION & TRAINING ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS HEALTH & BIOTECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURING MINERALS & ENERGY REGIONAL EXPORTER  SMALL BUSINESS