SYDNEY SHINES AS HOME OF INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES

Sydney is has reaffirmed its status as a global business destination with 7,000 medical professionals set to descend on the Harbour City in 2021 for a major conference.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres made the announcement following his trade mission to Europe where he delivered the keynote address at IMEX Frankfurt, the world’s largest summit for the international conference sector, promoting Sydney and NSW for upcoming international business conferences.

“At the centre of our pitch was the Government’s $1.5b investment in the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC). Our message to these business leaders is that Sydney is well and truly open for business,” Mr Ayres said.

“Business Events Sydney has secured conferences valued at more than $385 million up to 2023, with $200m direct expenditure for events to be hosted at the ICC. This is clearly a huge source of income for the State which is why are selling ourselves as the best city in the world to hold international conferences.”

As a part of the address, Mr Ayres announced Sydney will host the FIGO World Congress of Gynecology and Obstetrics in 2021 with 7,000 medical professionals expected to attend.

“We’ve had the opportunity to meet with some key conference organisers considering where to hold their major conference in the next few years to make the case for bringing their business to Sydney,” Mr Ayres added.

“Business events are about so much more than a conference, they bring great benefits to the host city and to our local professionals in the relevant sector.

“I am delighted to announce global sports retailer Decathlon would start opening stores in Australia from next year, with Sydney set for its Australian headquarters.

“These are key markets and the mission afforded me the opportunity to engage with businesses across various industries that are looking to invest and trade with NSW in sectors including financial services, renewable energy and infrastructure.

“The EU is our second largest trading partner with two-way trade between NSW and the EU worth $21 billion per annum. European investors I met with are looking closely at opportunities in infrastructure, renewables and financial services.”