ASMEX conference hailed as breakthrough with government

by Jeni Bone on 26 May 2012 The recent second Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX), hosted by AIMEX and Superyacht Australia two days prior to the 24th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, attracted speakers and delegates from around the globe and has prompted a commitment of support from government and tourism bodies.

MaryAnne Edwards, head of Superyacht Australia, said the event attracted 110 delegates from the US, Netherlands, UK, New Zealand, Turkey, Taiwan, New Zealand and United Arab Emirates.

'They not only added international clout to ASMEX, but also extend the opportunities for brands doing business at the boat show,' she said.

AIMEX hosted buyers from Brazil, Florida, UAE and Taiwan, specifically coming to the conference and show to network with Australian companies and to look at the capability of the industry on the Gold Coast and those attending the conference and exhibiting at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

The strong line-up of speakers included AIMEX President Alistair Murray who talked about the issues with manufacturing and the suggested solutions provided to the Prime Ministers Task Force for Manufacturing, Richard Ward, Managing Director of Seawind Catamarans and Corsair who talked about his experiences in shifting their manufacturing to Vietnam and speakers like Thom Dammrich, President of NMMA who inspired delegates with the initiatives and growth of the marine industry in the US as a result of some key marketing strategies and focus areas.

Erwin Bamps of Gulf Craft also offered an enlightening view on the importance of the buyer and a strong brand. All speakers focused on the positive discussing opportunities for the future and sharing their strategies for driving the marine export and superyacht sectors.

A key focus for conference organisers the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Superyacht Australia was to ensure that delegates were well informed regarding the solutions and opportunities for businesses in the current economic climate.

The focus on solutions was also confirmed by several government speakers who were all adamant about working with the industry to drive more business for Australian companies. Since ASMEX 2011 AIMEX has been working closely with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Customs and Border Protection and more recently with the Prime Ministers Task Force for Manufacturing regarding the plight of manufacturing in Australia.

All of these departments were present at this years conference and provided industry with an update on their progress to alleviate some of the key barriers to businesses in the marine export and superyacht sectors in Australia.

ASMEX delegates have since been commenting on the value in attending a conference focused on the solutions and opportunities for business and their appreciation for speakers focus being on sharing of information rather than selling their brand or product.

More at www.superyacht-australia.com