The Communications Minister Richard Alston has returned from a promotional trip to the region, where he did the hard sell on Australia's information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
-Egypt is keen to draw upon Australia's experience in deregulating the telecommunications sector. In the case of Saudi Arabia, they want to reduce their reliance on traditional sources in Europe and the USA, and see Australia as a possible lower-cost alternative source of ICT expertise," Senator Alston said.
Senator Alston met with key industry players and government officials in United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey.
-The visit was successful in raising the profile of the Australian ICT sector and improved local awareness of Australia as a technologically advanced country, with positive coverage in the local media," he said.
As a result of the tour, Australian-based Intercard Wireless is in the process of negotiating contracts and partnerships with a number of markets in the Middle East.
The Health Insurance Commission also believes there is potential for growth in the region.
-In the UAE and Egypt for example, governments need assistance in the areas of health policy, effective audit systems and secure online information systems - areas where the Health Insurance Commission has proven expertise," Health Insurance Commission general manager Dr Andrew Parkes said.
The Middle East is one of the world's fastest growing centres for e-commerce. However, according to Senator Alston, regional communities have limited local expertise, which Australia can prosper from.
