The Federal Government’s Austrade-led mining mission to Ghana and Burkina Faso has begun earlier this week, which the Government says will give businesses a unique opportunity to explore opportunities in the region.

 

Trade and Competitiveness Minister Craig Emerson said fast-growing countries of West Africa offered business opportunities to Australian exploration, mining and mining services companies.

 

Demand for skilled workers in mines, as well as in agriculture and infrastructure, also pointed to a potential role for Australia's international education institutions Dr Emerson said.

 

 

"Australian mining services companies recognise the opportunities of Africa, but this mission gives them actual exposure to the mines and broader market conditions," Dr Emerson said.

 

"This is in keeping with the refocusing in Austrade on emerging and frontier markets, where Australian companies often have more difficulty with market access and intelligence.

 

"Companies taking part in this mission will meet mine managers and see for themselves the potential for their goods and services," he said.

 

Delegates will visit mines in Ghana and Burkina Faso and be briefed on the mining sector and other aspects of commercial life in West Africa.