Two Tasmanian businesses have taken out national export awards, with a seaweed biotechnology company and an organic skincare brand beating competitors from across the country.
Marinova and Three Warriors were among the winners announced at Wednesday night’s Australian Export Awards in Canberra.
Marinova won the international health category for its seaweed-based health products, which are now sold in 40 countries.
The company extracts compounds called fucoidans from brown seaweed, which are used in health supplements and pharmaceuticals.
Chief executive Paul Garrott said the company’s Tasmanian location had become a selling point.
“A sustained commitment to scientific rigour, advanced manufacturing and sustainability carved Marinova’s position as the global leader in its field,” he said.
“Marinova has successfully leveraged its Tasmanian location as a key advantage.”
“The Tasmanian hallmarks of quality, innovation and sustainability resonate with the company’s global customer base.”
Three Warriors took home the small business award for its self-tanning products, which have expanded into New Zealand, the UK and Lithuania.
Founder Corbin Halliday said he started the brand after a health scare forced him to reconsider the products he was using.
“Being recognised nationally among Australia’s best exporters feels like a celebration of how far we’ve come and how much potential there still is for clean, conscious beauty globally,” he said.
The former makeup artist said he was now looking at the Dutch market.
“Every market is different, from certification to consumer expectations,” he said.
“Our advice to new exporters is to do the research, understand your niche and make sure your business is ready before taking the leap.”
