Demand for energy is increasing due to strong global economic growth, rising incomes, and continuing industrialisation and urbanisation in many APEC economies. These developments have raised concerns around energy security and, in particular, how energy security can be achieved in a manner that helps address climate change.

Efficient markets can contribute to energy security by providing access to diverse sources of supply and clear incentives for investment in new energy technologies, providing a basis for the development of energy alternatives. However, the energy sector remains highly regulated in many APEC economies, restricting substantial investment inflows and inhibiting energy trade in the region.

This event will bring together APEC member economies and guests, trade and investment experts and energy market participants to address priority barriers to energy trade and investment currently being identified in an expert study that will form the basis of the Roundtable discussions.

This event responds to the instructions of APEC Ministers and Leaders in 2006 and 2007. Its outcomes will be reported to relevant APEC fora and will be implemented under the guidance of the APEC Energy Working Group.

Click here to download a REGISTRATION BROCHURE or REGISTER ONLINE.

ACCOMMODATION

A number of rooms have been reserved for delegates at the venue - the Shangri-La Hotel - at a special rate of AUD$210 for a Superior View room and AUD$220 for a Superior Bay View room per night. These rates include breakfast for two guests per room per night. We encourage you to book early to guarantee this reduced rate. Alternative accommodation is also available at the Rydges Tradewinds Cairns at a rate of AUD$159. Breakfast can be purchased for an additional AUD$19.

Click here for information regarding Australian entry conditions and Customs requirements.

ABOUT CAIRNS

Cairns is a modern city in the heart of Australia's Tropical North. It provides an ideal base for which to explore the rich and varied treasures of this region with day trips to The Great Barrier Reef and The Daintree National Park highly recommended. Cairns City is the international gateway into Tropical North Queensland, and carries with pride the mantle of safest tropical city in the world. Culturally, the unique and fascinating heritage of the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is showcased in world-class venues and attractions. For more information on Cairns please visit the Cairns Tourism web site http://www.tropicalaustralia.com.au/homepage/index.htm

KURANDA TOUR: Join the post Roundtable tour on Thursday afternoon to experience the historic Kuranda Township. Your return journey is on the spectacular Skyrail cableway through breathtaking Rainforest taking in superb coast and tableland panoramas.

DRESS CODE: The dress code for this Roundtable event is "Business Casual or Smart Casual". Gentlemen are not expected to wear neck-ties.