16-May-2017 9:55 AM

Destination NSW: Sydney welcomes delegates for Australia’s largest tourism trade event

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15-May-2017 The State's $32.3 billion tourism and events industry is set to receive a significant boost this week when Sydney hosts the country's largest annual tourism trade event, the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) at the new ICC Sydney.

NSW Minister for Trade and Industry, Niall Blair said the four-day event secured by the NSW Government, will attract more international delegates than any other trade show held at ICC Sydney since its opening in December 2016, firmly placing Sydney and NSW on the world stage.

"This week ICC Sydney will illustrate what it was built to do, and that is to lure visitors from across the globe to NSW for convention and exhibition business, while boosting the State's economy," Mr Blair said.

"ATE will host more than 130 buyers from Greater China, our fastest growing and largest inbound visitor market, providing the NSW tourism industry with the chance to capilatise on the many opportunities presented by this lucrative market.

"Sydney is undisputedly the gateway to our great State and has the country's most spectacular and iconic attractions, making it the first choice for international travelers. We look forward to welcoming delegates to NSW this week and profiling our unique accommodation, spectacular food and wine, and beautiful surrounding rural and regional areas."

Mr Blair said NSW would have the highest number of new exhibitors than any other State at this year's ATE.

"With over 700 buyers from more than 30 countries attending ATE to see what's on offer, Sydney and NSW will be showcased as a premier global destination for tourism and business," Mr Blair said.

ATE brings together Australian tourism businesses, tourism wholesalers and retailers from around the world through a combination of scheduled business appointments and networking events.