Joint Media release

with Minister for Trade, The Hon Simon Crean MP

29 June 2008

Australia to Participate in Shanghai World Expo 2010

Australia will this week sign the official Contract of Participation for the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.

The Shanghai World Expo will take place between 1 May and 31 October 2010. Over 170 countries and 30 international organisations are expected to take part and it is estimated that the Expo will attract more than 70 million visitors.

This important step formalises Australia’s commitment to what will be the biggest World Expo in history and follows the Government’s commitment of $61 million in this year’s Federal Budget. The Commonwealth will also seek a further $22 million in funding from corporate sponsorships and partnerships with the States and Territories.

The Trade Minister, Simon Crean, visited the site of the Shanghai World Expo during his trip to China in April 2008, including meeting with China’s Commissioner General for the Expo, Ambassador Hua Junduo.

“For Australian companies, the Expo represents a wealth of opportunities. There will be opportunities for companies to participate in trade missions, business networking events and sectoral promotions, to become corporate sponsors and to take part in the project’s procurement process,” said Mr Crean.

The centrepiece of Australia’s presence will be a high-impact, high-capacity pavilion, which will engage, educate and entertain an expected seven million visitors over the 184 days of the expo.

“Addressing the expo theme of “Better City, Better Life”, exhibits will showcase Australia’s cities, our strong and vibrant economy, our commitment to sustainable development, our technological expertise and innovation, our world-class research and education, and our rich and diverse culture,” Mr Smith said.

Targeted business, cultural and communications programs will augment the pavilion’s exhibits. Daily performances by a diverse range of artists from around Australia will highlight our cultural life.

Five tenders will be released in 2008 and 2009 – communications and public affairs; pavilion construction, exhibition and technical operations; cultural program; pavilion staffing, retail and operations; and pavilion decommissioning.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555