Page 1365 - Week 05 - Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
I was also pleased to witness Canberra start-up Mineral Carbonation International—MCi—sign a $100 million memorandum of understanding with Singapore company ArmorShield Holdings, which has extensive networks and experience in doing business in China. MCi is a local Canberra company that now enjoys global success. By developing technology that stores carbon dioxide in carbonates used in building materials, MCi is partnering with industry leaders around the world to reduce construction and building industry emissions.
The MOU is a platform for MCi to grow its business networks in Singapore and China. MCi’s success is a very practical example of why our city is a true knowledge capital and enhances our standing as a clever, connected and creative city. These are attributes that are attractive business propositions to offshore investors looking for opportunities in our city. It was an honour to witness this Canberra company’s technology developments and I was proud to have the opportunity to promote MCi’s successes, together with our city as a place of innovation and entrepreneurship.
I will be very surprised if we do not hear a lot more about this company and their success in China in reducing levels of air pollution in that country. This little Canberra company will play a key role in the global fight against climate change—yet another Canberra success story.
My first day in Singapore ended with a networking reception hosted by the Australian high commissioner to celebrate the establishment of the Canberra-Singapore direct flight route. The reception was attended by key senior Singapore government officials and business executives, including both the chairman and CEO of Singapore Airlines.
I took the opportunity to speak about the bigger opportunities to connect with Canberra businesses, regional food and wine makers, educational services and the enormous knowledge assets that our city offers. I think our newly appointed ANU Vice-Chancellor and Nobel Laureate Professor Brian Schmidt summed it up beautifully when he said to me recently, “We will be six hours from Singapore and eight minutes from the airport.”
On day two of the mission I attended the launch of the Canberra International Support Network and was pleased to witness the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Canberra Business Chamber and the Singapore Business Federation, which will focus on promoting expansion of trade, tourism and business between Singapore and the Canberra region.
The Canberra International Support Network is a new initiative for Canberra businesses to share knowledge and opportunities. The first International Support Network will focus on Singapore, with other trade partners to follow. It will enable those wanting to use direct flights as a springboard to export to Singapore and beyond to learn from those Canberra businesses that have already been successful.
The new support network is a demonstration of Canberra’s sense of community and local businesses’ commitment to collaborate to make our city more competitive. It aims to support our local businesses to expand overseas, whilst also drawing further investment into the Canberra region. It will play a key role in ensuring business in the capital region takes full advantage of the new capital express route.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video