NSW's exporters have been urged to seek recognition for their success in global markets.

Premier Nathan Rees launched the 2009 Premier's NSW Export Awards at a packed business event in Sydney.

"The global marketplace has become even more challenging and competitive for our NSW exporters," Mr Rees said.

"So it's important that we recognised the hard work and achievements of these can-do companies."

In 2007-08, NSW businesses generated merchandise exports worth $30 billion and service exports valued at $20.6 billion.

The awards recognise and reward the achievements of individual companies and their staff, as well as providing greater credibility to further expand their business.

The Premier's NSW Export Awards are open to all NSW exporters. There are several categories including agribusiness, services, small to medium manufacturer, emerging exporter and regional exporter.

The NSW Government, through the Department of State and Regional Development, is the major sponsor of the awards and sponsors the Exporter of the Year Award and the Regional Export of the Year Award.

Entries in the 2009 Premier's NSW Export Awards close on August 7. For more information go to www.exportawards.gov.au/nsw or call 02 8243 7400.