The Northern Territory has recorded the highest ever levels of international trade in the year to 2019, closing with a balance of $8.1 billion. 

$8.1 billion is a 111.5% increase on the year prior and driven by a combination of a 70% increase in the value of goods exported, particularly with the advent of LNG export from the INPEX, and a modest decrease in the value of goods imported. 

Resources, live export and the commencement of LNG export from the INPEX site which commenced in 2018 top the Territory’s major export list. 

Petroleum, transport equipment and road vehicles make up some of the Territory’s largest imports. 

These record numbers are welcomed on the eve of the 26th Chief Minister’s NT Export and Industry Awards, coordinated by the International Business Council and Chamber of Commerce NT.

The awards, which are being held at Mindil Beach Casino tomorrow will see 18 local organisations recognised for excellence in their fields. 

Winners from the NT Export and Industry Awards will then progress to the Australian Export Awards, to be held in Canberra later this year. 

Quotes to be attributed to Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Paul Kirby: 

“Almost doubling our international trade balance is a huge outcome for the Northern Territory, for the economy and for jobs. 

“The Territory export economy has a bright future and figures like these reinforces the importance of our export market for jobs and the economy. 

“With our top export destinations all in Asia, this shows the importance of upcoming events such as Facing South, to be held in Shenzen later this year. 

Media contact – Hannah West 0436 641 108.