A free workshop for regional export-ready businesses was held at Tamworth’s West Diggers Club as part of a state government initiative - the NSW Export Capability program.

Owners and employees from about 30 different businesses were schooled on ways to develop strategies to break into Asian markets.

NSW Department of Industry, senior export adviser Rob Harrison said attendees came from sectors including agriculture, equine, food and fashion.

“The workshop is designed to help businesses expand into the ASEAN Market (Association of South-East Asian Nations),” he said.

“What we are really trying to do it help them develop and implement market strategies to take advantage of the increasing potential these markets have with over 650 million people among them.”

“In addition to that, there is also a section on e-commerce where we will be discussing with them and giving them some real tips to build an e-commerce strategy.”

Staff from Austrade and Asianlink Business were on hand to provide advice and answer questions on the day.

Mr Harrison said the workshop was the fourth of its kind, targeting the ASEAN market, to be held across the state.

“This is part of the export capability building program being rolled out across the state,” he said.

“The feedback has been very positive.”