PORTLAND – The Maine International Trade Center is hosting an “Australia Market Opportunities Briefing” from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, March 5, in Portland.

Australia is one of the world’s most open markets, and the Australian economy has grown faster than any other industrialized country for the past decade, according to the trade center. The market briefing provides a unique forum for Maine businesses to explore potential trade opportunities with Australia.

The speaker is Keith Kirkham, acting senior commercial officer, U.S. Commercial Service – Australia and New Zealand. Kirkham, who is based in Sydney, has firsthand knowledge of the Maine business scene since he was the former director of international commerce for the state. Rep. Tom Allen is also scheduled to participate in the program and provide closing remarks.

This market briefing will include: an overview of the Australian economy, a discussion of market drivers and opportunities, and the Australian-U.S. Free Trade Agreement.

The United States has identified the following industries as especially good prospects in the Australian market: automotive parts, biotechnology, computers, environmental products and services, IT services, medical equipment, security equipment, software, telecommunications equipment and services, and tourism.

There is no cost to attend this program, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce. However, advance registration is requested.

For more information and to register, people can contact Cheryl Rau at 541-7455, by e-mail at [email protected] or visit the Web site, www.mitc.com.

Maine International Trade Center is a dues-based membership organization with offices in Portland, Lewiston and Bangor.