Digital tools to help Australian businesses

The Morrison Government today launches a range of digital tools to help Australian businesses to reach new international markets and customers.

The export.business.gov.au website features interactive market insights, trends as well as information on grants, funding, local laws and regulations, distribution and shipping.

The Morrison Government funded the site through its $21.4 million commitment for a Trade Information Service to support Australian businesses to access new international markets.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said the tool would help Australian businesses grow and reach new customers.

“International trade supports Australian businesses and Australian jobs, that’s why the Morrison Government is helping businesses find new markets and new opportunities for their products,” Mr Tehan said.

“Australia posted a record calendar year trade surplus of $72.7 billion in 2020 and our efforts to encourage trade diversification are already paying off with a number of agriculture products finding new markets in Vietnam, Indonesia, Egypt, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and Korea.

“These tools will help drive more market diversification and encourage more Australian businesses to engage in international trade, which is good for jobs and the economy.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said Austrade’s export services would be available through easy to navigate, self-service tools, insights and advice on demand.

“To grow Australian industry and create new local jobs, we need our businesses to tap into new markets around the world – and export.business.gov.au will bring Austrade’s insights and advice, into one easy to use place,” Minister Andrews said.

Export Council of Australia Chair Dianne Tipping said there was enormous potential for businesses to embrace innovative digital offerings.

“If you’re thinking about going global, but unsure where to start, Austrade’s digital export services can take the guess work out of the research process and fast-track your export journey,” Ms Tipping said.

“For those new to export there’s a quick check-list to understand the market potential for your product, pointing to further information on the opportunities and challenges in your chosen market.”

AUSVEG National Manager for Export Development Michael Coote said Austrade’s digital export services had practical benefits for the agricultural sector.

“This is an important tool for Australian businesses seeking to navigate the complexities of exporting agricultural produce – and a useful platform for both new exporters considering established export markets, and existing exporters looking to enter emerging markets,” Mr Coote said.

“Agri-businesses looking to capitalise on growth and stay one step ahead of a rapidly changing export landscape can more readily access Austrade advice and insights on top-performing markets to inform their trade and diversification strategies to expand and take advantage of the opportunities available through export.”

For further information go to www.export.business.gov.au.