SINGAPORE based shipping service Swire has emerged as the main contender, to begin operating a direct international service from Tasmania.
The Tasmanian Government announced, in the lead up to this year's state election, it would put $33m a year, over the next three years, to attracting an international shipper.
"The government has beeen working since day one to deliver on our commitment to re-establish an international shipping service for Tasmania as a key part of our long-term plan to grow our economy and create jobs," Transport Minister Rene Hidding said.
"After careful consideration of expressions of interest and significant work with the shipping industry, the Government expects to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Singapore-based Swire Shipping in the near future.
"We expect a period of market testing will then take place before the shipping line establishes arrangements to commence operations."
But a number of the State’s key exporters have already indicated they would be unable to use a direct service.
In submissions to the Productivity Commission’s review into Tasmanian Shipping and Freight, they cited delays in getting goods to market, limited global port access and limited warehousing in Tasmania.
Five Tasmanian industry groups have called for an extension of the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme to cover exports.
But Mr Hidding said the government's role was to facilitate a market solution, while acknowledging that individual customers will make their own commercial decisions.
"While the Tasmanian Government supports an extension to the Federally-funded TFES scheme, the Australian Government has clearly indicated that any changes must fit within the current funding envelope – but any change on this basis threatens the vitally important Bass Strait shipping market and is, therefore, not acceptable," Mr Hidding said.
"Tasmania cannot afford to stand around waiting, and that's why we are getting on with the job of working with industry to facilitate the establishment of a viable, sustainable international shipping service.
"Our export industries have suffered with the lack of such a service, and the Government is committed to doing everything we can to see one reintroduced."
