The opposition is calling on Premier Colin Barnett to explain why the state government is closing down Western Australia's trade office in the US, months before he is due to go on an official visit to the country.
Opposition Trade Spokesperson Mark McGowan said Mr Barnett must immediately clarify the reasons for the closure and the reasons behind his tour.
"The Office's closure is a major slap in the face for both local exporters and potential North and South American investors," Mr McGowan said.
"If the United States is such an important place for the Premier to visit then why has he approved the closure of the trade office.
"Quite simply this closure smacks of penny-pinching."
Mr McGowan said figures released at the end of January by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show an increase in Western Australian exports to the United States from $191million in the June quarter to $301million in the September quarter.
"While there has been a significant decline in exports to the United States since September 2008, Western Australia was now not in a position to capitalise on the improving American economy."
Mr McGowan said it was his understanding the office had been given six weeks to shut-up shop.
"The Americas Trade Office has done a great job and I would particularly like to thank the Director Doug Partington for his service to the State," Mr McGowan said.
Mr McGowan said he believes the Premier's eight day US tour in April includes Houston, Washington DC and New York.
"The Premier has yet to visit some of the State's major export markets including India, Republic of Korea or Thailand," he said.
