• Charles Sturt University Wagga Wagga and Business NSW hosted the French Trade and Investment Commissioner Ms Stephanie Morley on Wednesday 31 May
• The Commissioner met with representatives from the University, industry and government to leverage opportunities with the French Agtech and Green Tech markets
• The roundtable was held from 11am until 1pm

The Trade and Investment Commissioner – Embassy of France in Australia (Business France) Ms Stephanie Morley visited Charles Sturt University Wagga Wagga on Wednesday 31 May.

The visit was co-hosted by the University and Business NSW and attended by the Commissioner and other attendees from Business France, Exportia, RSM and the French Embassy, who met with representatives from the University, Business NSW, government and regional industry representatives from across the Riverina Murray.

Charles Sturt Head of Government Relations and Regional Engagement Ms Samantha Beresford was delighted to be hosting the Commissioner at the University’s Wagga Wagga campus.

“The French Trade and Investment Commissioner and other delegates are visiting the Riverina to look at opportunities and explore various sectors where both countries can complement each other's market strengths,” Ms Beresford said.

A roundtable discussion took place covering the following topics:

• An overview of the European Market
• Market entry do's and don'ts
• Support available from the French Government by Ms Morley
• The opportunities available in the Green/Agritech Market by Counsellor (Agriculture) from the Embassy of France in Australia Mr Vincent Hebrail

Charles Sturt Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Mark Evans opened the event including giving an overview of Charles Sturt’s capabilities with respect to the market opportunities to be explored. Professor Evans also facilitated a roundtable discussion with industry to engage in trade and research opportunities.

Delegates participated in a tour of the University’s National Life Sciences Hub (NaLSH) building, where they heard from research staff about initiatives including the Global Digital Farm, grains research, THRIIVE, Lacotferrin and dairy beef research.

Market sectors discussed during the visit included:

• Agriculture and food: digital Agriculture in grains, meat, dairy, wine, and seafood. Exploring avenues for exporting Australian products and developing food and beverage industry partnerships.

• Education and research: both countries have renowned educational institutions and research facilities. Strengthening ties in student exchange programs, sharing best practices such as the Charles Sturt Agripark and Global Digital Farm, and exploring opportunities for joint funding and technological development. 

• Academic collaboration: the University could establish educational partnerships or collaborations with universities or research institutions in France. Opportunities include discussion on joint research projects and student mobility programs.

• Economic Relations: the University could play a role in fostering economic ties between the two countries. The French Trade Commissioner will explore potential business opportunities, promote trade initiatives, and potentially support French companies interested in investing or establishing regional partnerships.

Ms Morley said France is a major player in agricultural production and is making significant investments in its future.

“France is moving towards a secure, modern and sustainable agri-food industry,” she said.

“With 2.3 billion euros, France 2030 is investing in innovation, scientific research, industrialization and expertise to strengthen the agricultural and food sectors in territories and to increase the production capacity and diversification of crops.

“To meet its ambitions in terms of food sovereignty, the French Government will support and accompany investments in innovative equipment and solutions contributing to a healthy, sustainable and traceable food.”