Mayor Michael Neoh and chief executive officer Bruce Anson will be wined and dined by leaders of Miura - Warrnambool's sister city - on an official goodwill mission next week.

Miura has paid for economy airfares and four nights' accommodation for the duo as part of its commitment to the relationship which started in 1992.

The shortfall in tour expenses, expected to be less than $2000, would be paid by Warrnambool City Council.

Cr Neoh said he would not deliberately mention whaling in his speeches but if the issue was raised by others he would highlight how whales were an important part of Australia's eco-tourism.

"If it's brought up I would reinforce the city's official policy which opposes whaling for commercial purposes," he said.

"I would probably highlight the important tourism component of whale-watching in Warrnambool. It brings in thousands of dollars."

Cr Neoh said he would suggest to his Miura hosts the potential benefits of starting exchange visits between business groups from the two cities and for more tourism links.

"We probably haven't maximised the potential of the sister-city relationship," he said.

"To date it's mainly been cultural exchanges.

"We will be looking at what new linkages are possible.

"There may be opportunities for companies here to export to Miura."

Mr Anson visited Miura when the sister-city agreement was signed 17 years ago.

"There's certainly a commitment between the two cities," he said. "They will visit Warrnambool again in three years."

The two leaders have been set a hectic schedule of tours and official meetings.

Cr Neoh said it would be a good chance to see how Miura handled its population of 50,000 - a target Warrnambool was aiming for by 2030.

"We'll talk to them about how they handle their growth - transport, housing, congestion, retail - these types of issues," he said.