Indonesia and the Philippines will be Austrade"s mining focus in February with two back-to-back events organized for Australian companies looking to develop and grow their business into Asia.

OZMINE Indonesia is from February 19-23 and ExplORE Philippines Mining Mission is from February 25-29, and Australian companies are invited to participate.

OZMINE Indonesia and the ExplORE Philippines Mining Mission will provide solid platforms for the successful market entry and expansion strategies of many Australian mining companies into South East Asia.

The time is opportune to showcase Australia's capability in specialist sub-sectors of the mining industry, specifically in equipment supply, technology and services, including training and education.

This year's inaugural OZMINE Indonesia was a highly successful event and the 2008 event is expected to be even better.

Organised by Austrade Jakarta, the exhibition showcases the capabilities of Australian mining companies. Participants will also have the option to join a series of mine site visits and see first hand the potential for their company in this market.

Following OZMINE, Austrade is conducting a mission to the Philippines comprising briefings, networking sessions and open cut mine site visits. A resurgence of activity in the Philippine mining industry has created renewed demand for mining equipment, technology, services and education, strengthening opportunities for specialist Australian companies.

Participating companies can develop relationships with key customers and contacts in Indonesia and the Philippines; see major mining sites first hand and acquire an understanding of the markets; create awareness of products and services in two vital marketplaces; and receive assistance from Austrade on how to operate successfully in these markets.

Indonesia is richly endowed with mineral reserves and globally ranks second in tin, third in copper and fourth in nickel production. Coal production has also grown rapidly in the last decade with the country now ranked second only to Australia in exports.

The Philippines has an approximate untapped mineral wealth value of $1 trillion and there are 18 metalliferous mines operating there.

For details on mission programs and costs, or to apply online visit: www.austrade.gov.au/miningmissions2008