The Australian Industry Group on Wednesday that government should not underestimate the importance of trade missions to further develop the businesses in Queensland.

In a statement released today by the AIG, Queensland fared well in exports for almost a quarter with 15 $65.5 billion in 2008 and 2009 while imports surged up to 15 per cent to $41.7 billion. The company also said trade missions will aid "businesses make the connections and gather the market intelligence to grow that business for the state and Australia."

An estimated of 100 companies, including AI will be involved in future trade missions to North America. Building relationships through face-to-face meetings is vital and important to penetrate the North America market.

AIG Queensland director Chris Rodwell said through a statement that an involvement of the Premier in missions will further raise the profiles of Queensland and ensure that the mission will entice the North American businesses and its government to engage in investing within the area.

"The trade mission will focus on some of the important emerging sectors of the state's economy. Growing these sectors will help diversify the Queensland economy, enhancing economic growth and stability while also delivering a wider range of employment opportunities for Queenslanders," Director Rodwell said in the statement.

Rodwell further adds that Queensland's economy will benefit fully if there is a significant expansion in the resources sector. However, he warns that seeking new investments through missions are not enough to uplift the economy of Australia.

"The government needs to be more involved in improving the state's trading performance, not less. It can and should run both a domestic and international agenda at the same time and should ignore calls to the contrary

"With more than $100 billion in two-way trade at stake, the companies who have joined the mission look forward to the Premier's support," Mr Rodwell said.