Speeches
Monday, 15 June 2026
South Australian Food and Wine Showcase Reception (Tokyo)
I am delighted to be in Tokyo on my second official visit as Governor, especially as we mark 50 years since the signature of the Nara Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation.
South Australia is proud our close ties with Japan: in food, wine and agribusiness; in defence and space, in resources fuels and clean technologies, health and medical, and in international education.
Food, including wine, and agriculture are not just vital sectors for our respective economies – they are also areas where we share common ground and growth potential.
South Australia proudly produces some of the world’s finest food, wine and beverages.
Moreover, we do so as a leader in sustainable and innovative farming, and with food safety and integrity at the heart of our agricultural practices, bolstered by Australia’s robust biosecurity regime.
Last year, South Australia was pleased to participate as a Gold Partner of the Australian Government at World Expo Osaka, showcasing both our products and our strategic relationship with Japan.
The showcase included our famous Southern Bluefin Tuna, used in restaurants dishes across Japan and coming from the first fisheries in the world to receive Marine Stewardship Council certification.
Our barley is used for brewing shochu and, while of course aware of the global reputation of Kobe beef, South Australian beef is also to be found in top-end Japanese restaurants.
We are particularly excited about the prospects in Japan for high-end South Australian wine.
70% of all Australia’s premium red wine exports come from South Australia, and Adelaide is a member of the prestigious Great Wine Capitals of the World Global Network, and we have taken part in the Sakura Wine Awards for several years.
The South Australian Wine Ambassadors Club is an international network of promoters of South Australian wine, and we are pleased to have 13 Japanese Ambassadors, some of whom are here tonight.
Friends
Global demand for high-quality, sustainably produced food is only going to grow, and both South Australia and Japan are perfectly positioned to meet this demand.
By working together, we can create real win-win outcomes, boosting trade, creating jobs and driving innovation in our food, wine and beverage sectors.
South Australia looks forward to working with you, but, in the meantime, please enjoy your evening!