Craig James received his Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) at University of NSW in 1984 and then a Master of Commerce (Economics) at the same university in 1988. He became chief economist of Colonial Group in September 1987, before becoming chief economist at CommSec in August 2000 with the Commonwealth takeover of Colonial.   Craig currently does around 2-3 regular TV crosses a day, ad hoc radio and newspaper interviews and writes regular commentaries as well as presenting to staff, clients and external organisations.

Alireza Rafiee is a Director of Market Development for Austrade in Toronto, having previously held similar positions for Austrade in Alberta and Tehran; and prior to that, for the Canada–Iran Chamber of Commerce. Alireza has also worked for the private sector with responsibilities in the export of goods and services, and international market development and investment in oil & gas, mining, automotive, education, IT, and infrastructure.

The China Lunch Room Team presents 2 Great Speakers

Friday 19 November

12.00-2.30pm

Australian Dollar Parity - is it here to stay?

Speaker: Craig James, CommSec

Craig James from CommSec will explore key issues and impacts arising from the high Australian Dollar.

In his weekly review on www.switzer.com.au Craig has stated... "no one should downplay the role that the high Australian dollar is playing in dampening the economy. The Aussie dollar is at the highest levels in 28 years. This is clearly no ‘garden variety’ event. Already there are a record number of products that are cheaper now than they were a year ago and the savings for consumers are only just starting to flow through.'

So what will be the impact of a high Australian Dollar on local businesses and what can we expect in the near futrure. Craig will specifically address:

• Who are the winners and losers from a high Australian Dollar?
• What does it mean for our SME importers and exporters?
• How can Australian Business remain Globally Competitive?

Canada: Opportunities for Australian Business
Speakers: Alireza Rafiee, Austrade & John West, Bio-Gill

Austrade’s Alireza Rafiee of Toronto will present on why Canada is such an attractive market for Australian exporters and investors and John West from local business Bio-Gill will present a brief case study on his export experiences since participating at Globe in Vancouver 2010, the world’s largest environment event.

Why Canada? Canada is approximately double the size of the Australian market. Canadians are very willing to buy Australian and invest in our businesses. Canada can also be a great migration strategy into the US market. The two countries share similar cultures, capital markets, economies and corporate values. Both countries share strong growth, and proximity to nearby key markets. Our event coincides with the inaugural Australia-Canada Economic Leadership Forum to be held in Sydney and has attracted a senior delegation of Canadian business leaders. Did You Know: Australia is Canada's leading destination in Asia Pacific for outward investment.

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