News

Inglis Exports To China Formally Recognised

21st Sep 2009

Inglis exports to Asia have been formally recognised for the second year running as the company has again been named a finalist of this year’s Premier’s NSW Export Awards.

The Awards recognise the efforts of the states exporting companies across a wide range of industries, and it was Inglis’ increasing involvement with China which again has them at the forefront of the thoroughbred industry.

Inglis held the first thoroughbred auction in China, the Hua Jun Thoroughbred Sale back on the 5th of August 2000 at the Guangzhou Jockey Club where more than 300 horses were sold, and the company played an integral role in the establishment of the China Studbook.

After a few quiet years, demand for thoroughbreds has returned over the past 12 months with Inglis exporting 64 horses to China. Chinese representatives purchased 42 lots from the 2008 Inglis Melbourne August Thoroughbred Sale including weanlings, broodmares, race fillies, racehorses and young well-bred stallion prospects. Buying continued at the 2009 Inglis Melbourne Autumn Yearling Sale when 22 yearlings were secured for export to China.

With Group 1 graduate success in Japan, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates and Singapore Inglis expects further growth for the company into the regions emerging markets.

"We’ve been working tirelessly over the past decade to grow our buying bench internationally, especially with our neighbours in Asia, and it is brilliant to see our efforts recognised by the greater business community and Government", said Inglis Managing Director Mark Webster.

"A number of provinces and equestrian clubs in China have a renewed enthusiasm for thoroughbreds and are clearly positioning themselves should wagering be legalised in China. My team has undertaken a number of visits to China over the past 12 months to get a better understanding of the state of the market. Although we are all excited at the prospect of exporting more horses to China, we need to be level headed and realistic about the current state of the market."

"During my visit to Beijing last week to meet with government officials, I was reminded there are no guarantees that wagering on horse racing in China would be legalised and any change in government policy was unlikely in the near term. Demand for thoroughbreds will therefore be moderate in the meantime, with the majority of interest coming from private equestrian riding clubs, some of whom conduct their own racing for the entertainment of their members. Until wagering is approved, we will make the most of every opportunity to ensure we are well positioned."

"Through our commitment to trade missions and constant innovations, Inglis will remain at the forefront of market development to capitalise on any viable opportunities within the region."

The winners of the 2009 Premier's NSW Export Awards will be announced on the 28th October by the Premier of NSW.