A produce boom was predicted amid dry conditions and fires. The news came following the Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation forum, where it was promised that all trade barriers would be removed by 2020. Former Member for Hinkler Brian Courtice, who had lost his seat the year before, was acting as a Federal Government consultant. Mr Courtice said at the time he believed the region would see a boost within 10 years. Developed members of the Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) forum such as Australia were committed to implementing free trade by 2010 and developing nations such as Indonesia by 2020. It was predicted the co-operation would boost Australiaâs economy by more than $7 billion a year.