“Many of the finalists have developed or adopted cutting-edge technology to improve their products and cut greenhouse emissions,” Dr Emerson said. As finalists in the awards, these businesses have also demonstrated the successful use of green power to further their success.

“Their success shows how the will to embrace new ideas can help businesses gain a competitive advantage in world markets,” said Dr Emerson.

Co-presented by the Australian Trade Commission and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Australian Export Awards are celebrating their 49th year and will announce the winners at a ceremony on December 8 in Brisbane.

Dr Emerson also emphasised the Australian government’s ongoing support for exporters, with the Prime Minister’s Australian Exporter of the Year to be awarded at the ceremony. “The Government remains committed to gaining better access to overseas markets, which ensures Australian exporters have the best chance of success.”

Finalists at this year’s awards have contributed $5.6 billion in export earnings this year combined with more than half of them being new to the Export Awards program.