Partners to feed WA food industry

WA's food industry is set to get a boost after a new partnership between the State Government and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) WA was announced this week.

The partnership aims to provide communication, policy development and support services for WA's food industry and is believed to be the first of its kind in Australia.

The launch of the new initiative took place at the O'Connor base of Sticky Fingers Gourmet Foods, which produces a range of handmade condiments.

The business started in 1998 with just one product and has since grown to encompass 60 products which are also exported to Singapore and the Maldives.

Agriculture Minister Terry Redman announced the initiative and said taking advantage of export opportunities in Asia would be key to developing the State's food manufacturing industry.

"WA has always been good at growing food but could do more to add value to that produce," Mr Redman said.

"This partnership will focus on food industry planning, sharing of market intelligence and developing collaborative projects to support innovation in the food sector."

It will also allow for a unified voice for the local food industry and a CCI Food Industry Advisory Group - a forum to raise industry issues and develop policy responses.