As part of Australia's ambitious expo agenda - matching its significant investment in the pavilion and China's position as Australia's largest trading partner - the Australian pavilion will have a dedicated VIP facility for hosting more than 200 invitation-only events over the 184 days of the expo. An exciting program of events is taking shape, including targeted seminars, gala launches, high-level meetings, policy discussions and trade and investment promotions. Collectively, these events will comprise the "business program". Around 12,000 guests are expected to attend business program events, with the aim of strengthening trade and investment, as well as institutional and people-to-people links with China and other international participants.

The business program is positioned to leverage existing Australia-China relationships in resources, energy and agriculture, while creating opportunities in new and niche areas of increasing importance to the growing and changing Chinese economy: such as legal, financial and business services; clean energy technology; automotives; urban design and infrastructure; and education, science and research. Events from all sectors will be spread throughout the six months, rather than in sectoral blocks.

Business program events will target selected audiences, including senior policy-makers, business people, academics and media. The business program will enable project stakeholders, including Commonwealth government agencies, state and territory partners and corporate sponsors, to leverage Australia's participation in the expo for specific policy and trade and investment outcomes.

We appreciate the input from AustCham Shanghai, the Australia-China Business Council and the Australia-China Council on the practical development of the program.

As business program planning is being finalised, interested parties should move quickly to understand the planning framework and consider remaining opportunities for involvement.

During the evenings over the course of the expo, an outdoor venue at the pavilion will feature live music and will offer quality Australian food and beverage for sale. Against the backdrop of our iconic building, this will be an excellent opportunity for business people, families, individuals and students to deepen relationships in an informal, welcoming, Australian atmosphere.