Economy: South Australian exports continue to outpace the nation.

South Australian export growth has outpaced the nation for the 10th consecutive month.

The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics trade figures also show overseas goods exported from South Australia grew 15.4% to $12.4 billion for the 12 months to July 2014.

The latest result showed South Australia’s exports exceeded the $12 billion mark for the sixth straight 12-month period.

Acting Investment and Trade Minister Susan Close said South Australian exporters continued to excel in a competitive world market.

“Month after month we are posting fantastic results, and South Australian exporters should be commended for their sustained success,” Dr Close said.

“Our 15% growth in the 12 months to July outpaced the nation’s 11% growth, showing South Australia is ahead of the game in developing new export markets,” Dr Close said.

“South Australia’s export growth rate has topped all other states, with 14% for Western Australia and 10% for Victoria.

“Exports from Queensland and New South Wales fell 1% while Tasmanian exports were down 6%.

Dr Close said the State Government recognises that the state’s ongoing prosperity depends on our international connections, alliances and exports.

“In the the past few years South Australia has developed economic engagement strategies for the key markets of India and China which are building on our established exports of agriculture, manufacturing and minerals,” Dr Close said.

“These strategies are also providing a platform to identify other strong areas for shared growth such as natural resources, education and training, aerospace and defence, water, and clean technology.

“With these two strategies bearing fruit, the State Government has turned its attention to strengthening our economic engagement with South East Asia.

”A wide range of merchandise is already exported to the region including copper, wheat, lead, wine, metal, malt, seafood and meat.

“South East Asia also offers increasing opportunities for our services exports, in particular in education and skill development, agribusiness, aquaculture, defence, infrastructure development and healthcare.”

Source: News Release Acting Minister for Investment and Trade Susan Close, 04 September 2014