Hodgman starts trade mission in Singapore

Tasmanian Premier Will Hodgman is due to meet with Singapore's deputy prime minister to kickstart a nine-day trade mission selling the island state to Asian markets.

Mr Hodgman, whose schedule begins on Friday, is sharing his promotional responsibilities with two well-known Tasmanians - former Australian cricketers Ricky Ponting and David Boon.

The trip hopes to capitalise on already strong trade ties with China, to which exports have increased by almost 80 per cent in the past year.

When the entourage moves to Delhi and Mumbai, where cricket is hugely popular, Ponting and Boon will act as brand ambassadors.

"This will be the first time Tasmania has had a trade mission to India," Mr Hodgman said.

"We are breaking new ground which I believe over the longer term can result in similar export opportunities for Tasmanian businesses, opening new markets for products and creating jobs."

Tasmania's booming tourism and hospitality sectors will headline the series of meetings, along with the manufacturing and education industries.