NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015
EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND IN JAPAN PAGE 6
SCOTTISH PACIFIC’S TOP TIPS FOR NEW EXPORTERS PAGE 8
SECRETS TO TRADING IN THE MIDDLE EAST PAGE 10
TRADING WITH THE FOUR ASIAN TIGERS PAGE 12
SPECIAL FEATURE AUSSIE MADE THE BEST FREIGHT // NOVEMBER // 1 BRANDING THE / DECEMBER 2015 FINDING DEALS KEY IN TPP PAGE 14
PAGES 20-27
a smarter way to trade
From the editor
OUR TEAM
E
xporters throughout Australia would agree that 2015 has been a remarkable year. Not only have we seen a steady fall in the stubbornly high Australian dollar, but now also Australia is competing on a level playing field with most of its biggest trading partners. As this year draws to a close we must congratulate the federal government on its achievements for Australian exporters. It’s fair to say the Abbott Government didn’t set the world alight with its domestic policies, but its achievements globally have been nothing short of outstanding. And Trade Minister Andrew Robb and Foreign Minister Julie Bishop can take much of the credit. They have achieved more for exporters in 18 months than successive governments achieved in nearly two decades. Australian exporters will now benefit from signed free trade agreements with our three biggest Asian trading partners – Japan, South Korea and China. And for good measure, the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement concluded earlier this year after eight years of painstaking negotiations, has added icing to the export cake. Mr Robb described the TPP as “the biggest global trade deal in 20 years.” Though we may not see the real fruits of this deal for several years, it is a major coup by any measure. Collectively, the trade agreements will unlock new opportunities for Australian businesses in key global markets. They will help drive growth in Australia’s agricultural and services sectors including education, tourism, financial, legal, telecommunications and medical services. And most importantly they will help fill the huge gap in the Australian economy left after the mining and resources boom. Australian exporters can now enter 2016 with renewed hope and optimism. On behalf of the team at Dynamic Export we wish our readers a very happy and prosperous New Year.
//
Director and National Sales Manager
Julie Fletcher
julie@dynamicexport.com.au
Editor
Tim Michael editor@dynamicexport.com.au
Production
Veronica Avant IT Manager
Rob Fearn Contributors
Michael Holloway, Kim Mauch, Craig Michie , Benjamin Sun, Andrew Watson, Nada Young Advertising enquiries: advertising@dynamicexport. com.au
Editorial submissions: editor@dynamicexport.com.au
Published by: Think Positive Pty Ltd PO Box 221 Waverley NSW 2024 Australia
TIM MICHAEL EDITOR
www.dynamicexport.com.au
editor@ dynamicexport. com.au
@dynamicexport
Think Positive Pty Ltd cannot be held liable for any person(s), company or business acting upon or using the information provided in this e-magazine in any way. Information and content in Dynamic Export e-Magazine is provided to the best of our knowledge. We advise that you should seek independent professional advice to verify that all information is accurate and correct.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 2
NEWS
NEWS 3-5
BUSINESS & FINANCE 6-9
Export opportunities abound in Japan
WHAT’S ON 30-31
10-11
MIDDLE EAST
Trade opportunities for Australian exporters
12
FEATURE
Trading with the Four Asian Tigers
13
EMDG
Export Marketing Development Grants Scheme turns 40
14-15
AUSTRALIAN MADE
Aussie Made branding is key under TPP trade pact
16-17
THINK CHINA
How to cash in on China’s biggest shopping days
18-19
CHINA FTA
Trade agreement finally gets the green light
20-27 FREIGHT SPECIAL FEATURE Why it pays to shop around for the best freight deals
28-29
TRAVEL
Qatar Airways to fly direct to Sydney
NEWS
More Australian SMEs looking to grow business overseas: survey
A
steadily falling Australian dollar
(mostly
and improved export conditions
owners,
is prompting more businesses to
CEOs and
expand into offshore markets, according
CFOs) of 1,257
to a major business survey.
SMEs around
The Scottish Pacific SME Growth
Australia.
Index revealed 7.5% of respondents
Scottish
are preparing to expand their business
Pacific
overseas in the next six months, compared
CEO Peter
with 5.6% last year.
Langham said
This represents a 33.9 percent increase,
more small business owners forecast
driven mainly by the weaker Australian
short-term revenue decline – 16.8
dollar and increasing export demand.
percent of owners, up from 13.2 percent
And 13.2 percent of respondents
in August 2014. Their predicted average
said they are planning to expand
revenue decline rose to 4.6 percent
their businesses domestically and
from 3.9 percent last year.
internationally in the same period –
Mr Langham said cash flow is
compared with 11.6 percent the previous
emerging as a significant hurdle with
year.
half of all growth SMEs (50.7 percent)
However, overall Australian SMEs are slightly less confident about growth prospects, the survey found. Also, they show a greater willingness
saying it is a key challenge. It was notable that 15.1 percent of growth SMEs said they would fund growth by using specialist non-bank
to look beyond their main bank to fund
providers and funders other than their
growth compared to this time last year.
main bank (it was 11.2 percent a year
The Scottish Pacific SME Growth Index indicates a 35 percent jump in the number
ago). “It’s important that small business
of SMEs planning to go beyond their
owners are aware of the range of
main relationship bank and use specialist
funding options available to them to
non-bank providers or other banks to
support their growth. If the banks say
support their business growth in the next
no, or if they don’t like the conditions
six months.
placed on them, there are many other
The September 2015 Index, the third in a twice-yearly series, surveyed a broad
viable options including debtor finance and P2P lending,” Mr Langham said. •••
range of SMEs with annual turnover of $1m-$20m. National SME working capital specialist Scottish Pacific commissioned East & Partners to interview the senior managers
//
Scottish Pacific Business Finance Pty Ltd provides working capital solutions to SMEs, clients in a broad range of industries including transport, manufacturing, wholesale, import, labour hire and printing. www.scottishpacific.com
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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NEWS
TPP Trade Pact: What it means for Australian exporters
TIM MICHAEL
I
t’s finally a done deal.
living standards.
After eight years of painstaking negotiations the
Mr Robb described the TPP as “the biggest global trade
historic Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement has
been successfully concluded.
deal in 20 years.” “The TPP will establish a more seamless trade and
And Australian exporters will be the big winners with
investment environment across 12 countries which
new trade and investment opportunities between the 12 countries involved in the new deal.
represent around 40 per cent of global GDP,” he said. Last year, one third of Australia’s total goods and
At the conclusion of negotiations in the US last month
services exports – worth $109 billion – went to TPP
Trade Minister Andrew Robb said the TPP will enhance our
countries. They include Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile,
competitiveness, promote growth, job creation and higher
Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, New Zealand, Singapore,
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 4
NEWS
the US and Vietnam.
enterprises in TPP markets and ensure that SOEs do not
And TPP countries account for 24 per cent of the world’s trade in services.
unjustifiably discriminate against Australian suppliers of goods and services.
Australia’s services exports to TPP countries were
In regard to Intellectual Property, the TPP will not require
worth $20 billion in 2014 – almost 35 per cent of our total
any changes to Australia’s patent system and copyright
services exports.
regime – including biologic medicines – which had been a
The TPP comes just months after landmark trade deals with Korea, Japan and China.
major sticking point. The government has delivered on its promise not to
Each country involved will need to pass and ratify
change Australia’s existing five years of data protection for
associated legislation for the partnership to begin. This
biologic medicines or other key health issues, including
process is expected to take several months.
the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
By setting common international trade and investment
Mr Robb said this issue had been a “deal-breaker” for
standards between member countries, the TPP will make
Australia. It is understood a compromise was found shortly
doing business across the region easier. It will help to
before the final agreement was sealed.
reduce red tape and business costs.
Under the TPP, state-of-the-art e-commerce provisions
It will also slash barriers to Australian goods exports,
will pave the way for a more liberal cross border
services and investment and eliminate 98 per cent of all
environment for the flow and storage of data. It will
tariffs across everything from beef, dairy, wine, sugar, rice,
include appropriate consumer protections, while retaining
horticulture and seafood through to manufactured goods,
the right of governments to regulate in the public interest.
resources and energy.
And access will be improved for small and medium-
The TPP includes rules to make country-of-origin
sized enterprises (SMEs) to vital global value chains.
labelling for products clearer, and document the supply chain if key steps are conducted in other countries.
Also, the TPP encourages paperless trading, making customs and export delivery more effective and efficient.
Australian cane growers will be huge beneficiaries.
For investment, the TPP will create new opportunities
The TPP will increase market access for Australian
and provide a more predictable and transparent
sugar into the United States for the first time in 20 years – effectively doubling Australia’s entitlements.
regulatory environment. Australian investment in TPP countries has more than
Australia will have an additional quota of 65,000 tonnes
doubled in the last decade to reach $868 billion in 2014, a
base allocation, as well as a 23 per cent share of additional
rise of 16 per cent over the previous year. This represents
allocations into the US market – triple the previous
45 per cent of all outward investment.
amount.
Investment in Australia from TPP countries more than
The agreement significantly liberalizes beef exports to
doubled in the last decade to reach $1.1 billion in 2014,
Japan, and eliminates tariffs for beef into Mexico, Canada
a rise of 10 per cent over the previous year. Investment
and Peru.
from TPP countries is 40 per cent of all foreign investment
Australian services will also be given a big boost under the new agreement.
in Australia. While one of the Australia’s largest trading partners,
This includes education, professional services, transport and financial services.
China, is not involved in the deal, several other countries have indicated they are hoping to be covered in the new
Australia’s world-class Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) and oilfield services sectors in
system of trade rules. This includes South Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan and Colombia.
countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, Mexico, Chile and Peru
The agreement’s open architecture allows for other members to join in the future. •••
will also gain strong benefits. The TPP’s new rules on state-owned enterprises (SOEs) will help Australian businesses to compete on a more equal footing with government-owned commercial
//
For more information visit: http://dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/tpp/
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FINANCE & BUSINESS
Export opportunities abound in Japan
‘A number of great opportunities for Australian exporters’
ANDREW WATSON
A
ustralia has a strong relationship with Japan,
of great opportunities for Australian exporters.
providing a solid foundation for Australian SME
Mining, agriculture and services all have strong markets
exporters seeking to enter the Japanese market.
For SME exporters looking to do business in Japan, it is
important to consider the potential barriers that may affect
in Japan, representing numerous export opportunities for Australian exporters in these industries. Japan and Australia’s bilateral economic relationship
them entering this market, to ensure these factors do not
was further strengthened by the signing of the Japan
act as a barrier to success.
Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA) in July
Japan’s population of approximately 127 million makes it one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
2014, which provides benefits for Australian exporters on entering the Japanese market.
High levels of disposable income and demand for
Once JAEPA has been implemented in full, 97 per cent of
premium, high-end goods and services provide a number
//
Australian exports to Japan will be duty free.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FINANCE & BUSINESS
This will make a significant difference to resources, energy and manufacturing exports, which will all be duty free on entry to the Japanese market. Agricultural industries such as beef, fruit and vegetables will also receive gradual tariff reductions. JAEPA will also make it easier for Australian exporters to compete on a cost perspective with multinational players and local businesses in Japan. Japan’s business climate is generally on par with most other advanced economies. There are, however, some notable differences to operating in the Japanese market compared to the Australian market, which Australian businesses should be aware of. One such barrier is the language and culture. English is not widely spoken in business in Japan and therefore most Australian SMEs will find they need to use an interpreter when meeting potential customers and partners. A second area of potential difficulty is local regulation affecting foreign firms. For
ANDREW WATSON
example, paying tax can be significantly harder in Japan relative to other OECD nations. Seeking the advice of a local accountant or tax adviser can help Australian SMEs to understand the intricacies of local tax law.
Andrew Watson is Executive Director, Export Finance, Efic www.efic.gov.au
Being aware of these and other potential barriers to doing business in Japan will ensure Australian SME exporters are well-positioned to take advantage of the many exciting opportunities available in the Japanese market. •••
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FINANCE & BUSINESS
Q&A Ask an expert: Scottish Pacific’s top tips for new exporters
Increasingly SMEs are realising there is a huge opportunity to market their goods and services beyond Australian borders, but the major challenge for new exporters is where to begin. E more working capital, and without the proper research exporters can unknowingly expose themselves to unnecessary risks. Dynamic Export spoke to Craig Michie, ME C answer some of the most common questions new exporters should ask:
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FINANCE & BUSINESS
1. I have an order from an overseas customer, but I’ve never sold overseas before, what should I do? Craig Michie: The starting point is to understand the terms of the transaction. You need to know when you will be paid and what your responsibilities in the transaction will be (See INCOTERMs below). You should also talk to a freight forwarder, who can give guidance on transport and logistics. 2. What are INCOTERMS and what impact do these have? CM: INCOTERMS are globally-recognised rules which govern terms of international trade, and are issued by the International Chamber of Commerce. Put simply, an INCOTERM defines which costs the buyer and seller are each responsible for, and at which point risk and responsibility in the shipment passes from seller to buyer. Amongst other things it determines who should carry the insurance for goods in transit. See our website for a glossary of common terms. http://www.sptradeline.com/ au/what-is-trade-finance/incoterms find out if they are a safe risk? 3. I have a major order from one of my export customers,
CM: Always carry out your own credit reference checks
but I don’t have the working capital to fill it; who can assist
and perhaps consider credit insurance. Exporters should
me?
consider how to collect a debt in the event of a default. As
CM: The Federal Government offers assistance to
part of the approval process for Export Finance, Scottish
exporters via their export credit agency Efic. Efic has
Pacific performs a number of checks (including credit
historically worked with the major banks but recently
reports) on potential overseas customers and will provide
Scottish Pacific Business Finance became the only non-
an appropriate credit limit.
bank approved by Efic to assist with funding SME export transactions. Scottish Pacific’s Export Working Capital
Unfortunately Australian exporters can face a geographic
Finance facility is supported by an Efic guarantee in order to
disadvantage, particularly those seeking to access lucrative
deliver short-term pre-shipment funding where a business
North American and European markets.
has an order from an overseas customer.
Providing terms to customers can remove this disadvantage, however the impact on cash flow can be significant. An
4. I sell to overseas customers and receive payment
Export Finance facility can be the answer to maximising
before shipping, but they keep asking me for trading terms.
potential and unlocking the global marketplace. •••
How can I cover the cash flow gap in my business? CM: Our Export Finance facility provides funding against export invoices. You can receive up to 80 percent of the invoice value once it is submitted to us for funding. This would normally happen once the goods are shipped, meaning the exporter will not have to wait until the customer receives the goods to get paid. 5. My overseas customer wants credit terms – how can I
//
Scottish Pacific Business Finance provides working capital solutions to SMEs, offering the broadest range of trade and debtor finance solutions in Australasia. With more than 1000 clients in industries including transport, manufacturing, wholesale, import, labour hire and printing, Scottish Pacific handles more than $6 billion of invoices each year, providing funding lines exceeding $500 million. Established in 1988, Scottish Pacific has full operations centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Auckland and China.
www.scottishpacific.com
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FEATURE
Identifying new trade opportunities for Australian exporters in the Middle East Trade Commissioners and Ambassadors based in the Middle East have participated in a series of national seminars across Australia to explain the growing export opportunities with Gulf countries.
T
he MENA Connection Seminars 2015 conducted by Austrade, together with the Department of Foreign Affairs and
Trade, were held across Australia’s capital cities between October 26 and November 6. Gerard Seeber, Austrade Senior Trade Commissioner and Consul General based in Dubai, said bilateral relations with the countries of the Middle East and North Africa
GERARD SEEBER
are multi-faceted and growing rapidly. “Australia exports a range of products to the region, much of it linked to its unique geographic and demographic conditions,” said Mr Seeber. “There are numerous opportunities for Australian business, particularly across key sectors of food, agriculture, healthcare and education and the seminars aim to explain these.” Australian merchandise trade to the Middle East and North Africa region was $14.7 billion in 2014.
Spreading the word … Gerard Seeber, Austrade’s Senior Trade Commissioner and Consul General for Dubai
There are already more than 30,000
there are good reasons why the commercial outlook is promising, especially with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries,” said Mr Seeber. “Dubai, located in the UAE, is not only the Middle East’s main centre of trade and a safe haven for business and investment, but has also become one of the world’s great commercial and logistical hubs. “The city is a gateway to markets in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, one that is increasingly attracting the attention of
Australians living in the region and about 450
Australian businesses.
Australian companies have operations there.
“Given the region’s scarce water resources
“Despite the instability in the Middle East,
and arid landmass, food exports to the Middle
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FEATURE
infrastructure to make up for shortfalls in hospital beds. “In the UAE, for instance, there is an estimated shortfall of 2,000 beds while in Kuwait that figure rises to 5,000 beds,” said Mr Seeber. Saudi Arabia, Australia’s second largest trading partner in the Middle East, offers significant potential for economic ties to grow, given areas of complementarity in agriculture, education, healthcare and construction. “Saudi Arabia is a substantial market for dairy products, vehicle parts and accessories, as well as, a growing market for fresh vegetables, refined metals and information communications technology products,” said Mr Seeber. Saudi Arabia is also the largest producer of gold in the Middle East and has large reserves of phosphate, bauxite and tantalum making it attractive to miners. And Morocco has 70 per cent of the world’s phosphate resources. The UAE is a hub for Australian mining companies and providers of Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS). Australian companies are also active in the GCC rail network, worth about US$200 billion East have been a major source of success for Australian exporters, especially for meat, livestock and grains,” he said. The UAE was Australia’s 15th largest export market in 2014 and exports reached $3.7 billion in 2014, growing by 15.5 per cent.
‘There are good reasons why the commercial outlook is promising’
Demographic pressures and changes in
investment in freight and passenger rail planned over the next six years. The planned 2,200km rail line connecting the GCC states has yielded solid contracts for Australian firms and many more are on the horizon. Although instability in the region and the
lifestyle are also offering opportunities in
impact of falling oil prices has complicated
health care and tourism.
the business outlook, the UAE itself is
A growing middle class with a higher
growing at about 3 per cent a year and its reputation as a safe haven is still strong. •••
disposable income, compulsory health insurance and growing problems such as diabetes is driving demand for better health
To learn more about the business opportunities in the Middle East contact Austrade on 13 28 78 or email info@austrade.gov.au.
care. This is creating the need for new medical
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FINANCE & BUSINESS
Price is right for trading with the Four Asian Tigers The plummeting Australian dollar is good news for the Food and Beverage (F&B) sector, which has rapidly become much more competitive in the global market place. Nada Young
T
his is especially so in the markets of South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan, where price is
king. Commonly referred to as the Four Asian Tigers, these markets have shown impressive economic growth with few
‘In the markets of South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan – price is king’
barriers to entry when compared to their neighbours. In this part of the world imported goods are often criticised for their lofty prices. I speak with F&B distributors across Asia on a daily basis and I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve heard them praise the quality of imported produce only to bemoan the pricing and ultimately turn down an opportunity. With a significantly more favourable
In truth, distributors are accustomed
configurations and applicable FTA tariff
it comes to the price build and its
savings are applied.
foreign exchange (FX) rate, the value
appalling how often this results in
proposition is a lot more attractive.
pricing that is simply not competitive.
Profit margin expectations in South
Be certain you have optimised carton
to enjoying carte blanche when
Understanding the price build from
2. Know how the local GST or sales tax equivalent is applied. 3. Speak to a range of distributors
Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan and
FOB to wholesale or retail pricing in
or get expect advice to benchmark
Singapore are high. Most distributors
your chosen market is the best way to
distributor and retailer margins.
demand at least 25%-35% gross profit
counter this attitude.
(GP) and the leading players will often
To do this, you must be armed with
4. Survey the competitors in market and compile price data to demonstrate
treat marketing and logistical costs
a realistic cost model that calculates
such as warehousing and handling as
actual landed costs and uses margins
separate margins, not to be extracted
based on industry norms to determine
deal of time and resources, but as the
from GP.
final pricing and its viability against
foundation of any successful export
competitors.
plan it’s well worth the effort. •••
When the price build is challenged the response is predictable – rising operational costs for such things as cold storage and manpower must be accounted for.
Here are some tips for creating your cost model: 1. Get a DDP (delivery duty paid) quote from your freight forwarder. NB.
//
that your price is viable. This exercise can absorb a great
Nada Young is Asia Market Director, Incite, an export development agency for food and beverage companies trading with Asia. Contact: nadayoung@exportincite.com www.exportincite.com
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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FINANCE & BUSINESS
Export Market Development Grants Scheme turns 40 This month marks the 40th anniversary of Australia’s Export Market Development Grants (EMDG)
T
Andrew Robb…“EMDG scheme is now more important than ever”
his month marks the 40th anniversary of Australia’s Export Market Development
Grants (EMDG) scheme, which has helped 45,000 businesses expand offshore. The scheme reimburses up to 50 per cent of export promotion expenses for eligible small and medium-sized firms. It was established in the 1970s with legislation passed during the Whitlam Government, while the first grants were paid under the Fraser Government. Trade and Investment Minister
Other examples include Henselite, a lawn bowls clothing and accessories maker; Bangarra Dance
years and decades ahead,” Mr Robb said. A comprehensive, independent
Andrew Robb said the EMDG
Theatre, who are taking modern
review conducted by businessman
scheme has helped thousands of
creative indigenous culture to the
Michael Lee – tabled in Parliament
Australian firms build a sustainable
world and Cole Clark Guitars, who
earlier this year – found the grants
presence in overseas markets.
are turning native Australian timbers
continued to provide effective
into handcrafted instruments, sought
support for Australian exporters.
“The longevity of the scheme is a testament to its success and it has
after by performers around the
undoubtedly made a significant
world.
contribution to Australia’s success in overseas markets,” Mr Robb said. Over the years grant recipients
“The EMDG scheme helps sustain a more outward-looking business
Mr Robb said the EMDG scheme was more important than ever following the signing of Free Trade
culture and that helps Australia play to its strengths,” Mr Robb said. The 40th anniversary was marked
have included household names
Agreements with three of Australia’s
at a special event in Melbourne last
such as BHP, Cadbury Schweppes,
biggest export markets – China
week attended by representatives
Campbell’s Soup, Repco and even
Japan and Korea.
from businesses that have benefited
The Wiggles to help promote their talents to the world. Since the 1990’s the scheme came
“We are now embarking on an exciting era of trade and investment
from the scheme, as well as key industry leaders. •••
in a region with an exploding middle
to focus exclusively on small-to-
class, which presents enormous new
medium sized enterprises, helping
opportunities for Australian exporters
them to expand their businesses.
across a wide range of areas in the
//
The 2015 review of the EMDG scheme can be found at www.austrade.gov.au
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
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AUSTRALIAN MADE
Aussie Made branding is ‘key’ under TPP trade pact The Australian Made Campaign is urging businesses to boost country-of-origin branding on products and produce Partnership (TPP) Agreement.
T
he TPP will significantly reduce trade barriers, opening up new markets for Aussie growers and manufacturers, said Australian Made Campaign Chief Executive, Ian Harrison. “But it is important that they make the most of the marketing opportunity presented by ‘being Aussie’,” he said. “Prominent country-of-origin branding will play a key role in driving sales in the Pacific region, which has demonstrated increasing demand for Australian products and produce.” The Australian Made Campaign administers and
//
promotes the country’s only registered countryof-origin certification trade mark for all classes of Australian goods, the green-and-gold Australian Made, Australian Grown kangaroo logo. “The stylised kangaroo has been used to promote genuine Aussie products and produce for almost three decades, and the research shows it works,” Mr Harrison said. Research clearly establishes that the Australian Made, Australian Grown logo is by far Australia’s most recognised and trusted country-of-origin symbol. In addition, surveys conducted by YSC Online in
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 14
AUSTRALIAN MADE
2010 found that products carrying the logo Trusted countryin export markets were more likely to have of-origin symbol … increased sales than those that did not. Australian Made logo “Australia has earned itself a reputation for making and growing high quality products and produce, with the Australian dollar falling in value, demand for Aussie exports is growing strongly,” Mr Harrison said. “For many small businesses involved in export, the Australian Made, Australian Grown logo, with its proven, established links to Australia, becomes their strongest brand in the marketplace.” In addition to its role as a marketing tool in countries worldwide, the logo is already a registered certification trade mark in TPP nations Singapore and the USA. Plans for further registrations are underway. •••
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 15
CHINA
How to cash in on China’s biggest shopping day Benjamin Sun
W
ith a unique language, language and business culture, it’s not surprising that
China also has its own retail calendar. Although Australians may shop up a storm during Boxing Day, and those in the US open their wallets on Black Friday, Australian exporters must understand the peak shopping and gift-giving dates in China to target their strategy – and Singles Day is one of the biggest. 1. It gets its name from the loneliest number Singles Day is celebrated on November 11 as this date – 11/11 - is made up of the number one. The unofficial holiday began at Nanjing University during the 1990s but it has spread across China. Singletons treat themselves to gifts and party with their single friends on this day.
highest gross merchandise volume. Purchases
2. Singles Day is becoming mainstream
for the home are also popular, with Alibaba
Singles Day transformed into a shopping
reporting 1.2 million home appliances, 3 million
festival after Chinese internet giant Alibaba
lighting products and 200,000 bottles of
offered large discounts on its e-commerce
laundry detergent sold during the holiday in
platforms during the holiday six years ago.
2014.
Impressed at Alibaba’s success, other retailers followed suit by running similar sales and promotions on this date. It is now the most important date for online retailers in China with
4. Presents on Singles Day are different to
BENJAMIN SUN
other gift-giving holidays in China Other important dates for retailers in China,
Alibaba reporting 278 million orders on Singles
including Chinese New Year and the Mid-
Day 2014, equating to $12.3 billion.
Autumn festival, focus on gifts for others – relatives, friends, and colleagues. Presents
3. It’s about treating yourself
exchanged during these periods are often
Purchases on Singles Day are typically for
sweets, food, or wine, and usually feature
oneself. The most popular brands during
beautiful packaging or gift sets. Some popular
last year’s Singles Day belonged to clothing
gifts during these holidays, which may seem
and technology, with budget smartphone
unusual to some Australian exporters include
maker Xiaomi, rival phone maker Huawei, and
packaged macadamia nuts and olive oil.
Japanese apparel retailer Uniqlo, achieving the
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 16
Benjamin Sun is a director and co-founder of Think China. He is a digital marketer and researcher with extensive knowledge on the Chinese digital landscape and online consumer behaviour.
CHINA
5. Singles Day is an opportunity to keep up with Chinese retail trends Australian exporters to China should take
7. Singles Day could damage your brand If your goods are positioned as premium items, large discounts could backfire and
note of Singles Day and consider promotions,
damage your brand, instead of attracting
campaigns or other deals to make the most of
new customers and increasing consumer
this festival in China.
loyalty. When not done well, a Singles Day discount campaign could damage consumer
6. The dangers of Singles Day promotions
relationships that took years to develop. For
Despite the appeal of joining in on Singles
premium goods exporters, it may be more
Day retail activities, offering Singles Day
appropriate to offer a free gift with purchase
promotions could do your business more harm
instead of price cuts to celebrate the festival.
than good. With some brands pushing price cuts of up to 80 per cent, resellers often sell
Singles Day celebrations are set to grow in
individual purchases at a loss, which could
popularity as e-commerce becomes more
potentially damage your relationship with
widespread. However, Australian exporters
them. Despite the loss, the overall transaction
need to understand the opportunities and risks
could be profitable if the consumer buys other
before they decide to join in on China’s unique
goods after being attracted to the discount.
shopping festival. •••
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 17
About Think China Think China is an Australian agency specialising in digital marketing and analysis. The team works across e-commerce, data research and analysis to help customers access the Chinese market, build their brand and develop deeper relationships with mainland consumers.
CHINA
ChAFTA is critical for Australian jobs
China-Australia free trade
agreement finally gets green light The China-Australia free trade agreement will come into force before the end of the year after a compromise deal was struck between the Federal Government and Opposition.
T
rade Minister Andrew Robb said Opposition support would ensure that implementing legislation for the landmark China-Australia Free Trade Agreement
trading partner,” Mr Robb said. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said ChAFTA is “absolutely critical for Australian jobs in the future”.
(ChAFTA) would pass through both houses of Parliament. This would create enormous opportunities for Australia in the years and decades ahead, he said.
Australia’s opportunities in the Chinese market are “limited only by our imagination and enterprise”, he said. Labor recently unveiled three specific amendments to the
The deal reached with the Opposition would not in any
trade deal it would seek in order to agree to the deal.
way change or contravene the binding commitments made to China through the concluded FTA negotiations.
Those changes would have seen a revision to rules that meant there would not have been mandatory labour
“Nor will they in any way discriminate against our biggest
//
market testing applied to investor facilitation agreements
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 18
CHINA
“The compromise deal will not in any way discriminate against our biggest trading partner” (IFAs) for projects over $150 million, lifting the base pay threshold for 457 visa workers from $53,000 to about $57,000 and stricter licensing conditions for tradesmen and women looking to come to Australia. Minister Robb and Shadow Trade Minister Penny Wong negotiated the compromise which was rubber stamped by Cabinet and the Labor caucus. Labor believes all three of its concerns have now been addressed and the changes will be put in place by making changes to migration regulations but not, as originally proposed, through changes to the act. The changes still have the force of law. Under the deal, labour market testing will apply to people who enter Australia on work agreements, including workers brought in on 457 visas under the China-Australia deal as part of an IFA.
Mr Robb said the agreement reached with the Opposition represented a “sensible outcome” which would allow the
Secondly, 457 visa market salary requirements will be
free trade agreement with China to come into force as soon
strengthened to reflect wage rates paid under enterprise
as possible so that the substantial benefits can begin to
agreements, a move that means 457 visa workers will
flow.
be more expensive to hire as pay rates on enterprise
The Australia China Business Council (ACBC) National
agreements are typically higher than the minimum award rate.
President John Brumby welcomed the outcome. “This is very good news for Australia. Mr Brumby
And thirdly, there will be new visa conditions for people on
said. “Both the Government and Opposition are to be
457 visas in licensed trade occupations such as electricians
congratulated for working cooperatively in the national
and plumbers.
interest to achieve this outcome.”
If passed by the Senate in 2015, two tariff cuts are in
However, the union movement still has reservations.
prospect before the end of the year and then immediately after on January 1.
AMWU national secretary Paul Bastian said while the strengthened safeguards were “a step in the right direction”
Senator Wong described the deal as a “comprehensive package of safeguards for Australian jobs”.
the government and Labor should not think the political settlement is enough.
“What we’ve got is policy being turned into legal
“Our campaign will continue until Australian workers can
obligation. So I think that is a substantial strengthening of
be confident that (the China free trade deal) and trade
the safeguards.”
agreements generally deliver for their interests,” he said. •••
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 19
FREIGHT
It pays to shop around in a volatile freight market Keeping up with latest trends. Michael Holloway
C
ontainer freight markets have remained volatile in recent months, with equipment
TEU compared with US$1171 last year. The exceptions to this general trend appear to be on routes where there
supply imbalances, choppy energy
are significant container imbalances –
markets and shaky underlying macro-
particularly when combined with strong
economic sentiment creating plenty of
exporter/importer demand.
uncertainty. Increased capacity – with more and
For example, we are seeing some strong rate increases – and a general tightness of
more “mega ships” coming on-line
space – for outgoing container freight to
continues to place general pressure
certain Indian subcontinent ports.
on rates. Many lines are struggling to “hold the line” at higher freight values. Container shipping rates on the
Due to a poor Indian pulse harvest last season, demand for space on these routes is historically strong this year in the
world’s busiest route (Asia to Northern
November/December shipment period
Europe) have dropped by more than
from Australian agricultural commodity
20% for two consecutive weeks last
exporters.
month – and now sit at US$456/
We are seeing a substantial increase
TEU according to the Shanghai
in this type of inquiry via CargoHound
Containerised Freight Index (SCFI).
(Australia’s first online marketplace for
A recent Reuters report suggested container freight rates (as measured
international freight). Outbound rates to Chinese main ports,
by the SCFI) had increased in eight
meanwhile, remain very competitive –
weeks this year, but fallen in 28 weeks.
and overall, rates have continued to trend
Average rates for 2015 were US$659/
lower over the last 12 months.
‘Rates have continued to trend lower over the last 12 months’
//
More mega ships are coming online
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 20
FREIGHT
Amid such volatility, it pays to shop
Much of this has been at the “big end”
around on rates to ensure you are getting
of the market, with most of the new
the best price on the right service to suit
capacity being Mega Ships capable of
your requirements.
handling 18,000 TEU or more.
A key component of the general
Maersk line, for example, has
“downtrend” in freight rates has been
launched 20 Triple E vessels in recent
the massive increase in global container
years capable of carrying 18,000 TEU,
shipping capacity this year – with more
and recently confirmed rumours it
and more “mega ships” coming on line –
has placed orders for 11 new ships
and more to come.
capable of carrying 19,600 TEU each –
Reports suggest a total 602,000 TEU capacity has been added to global container freight supply since the start
expected to come on line in 2017 and 2018. The question now needs to be asked
of this year alone – and just 72,000 TEU
if shipping lines will be forced to idle
removed via scrapping. Since January, the
smaller vessels – and whether this new
global container vessel fleet has grown
“lower paradigm” in shipping rates will
2.9%.
be sustainable. •••
Michael Holloway is an executive with CargoHound, Australia’s first online marketplace for international freight. He has over 25 years of experience in freight, transportation and logistics. He returned to Australia in 2013 from Malaysia where he was responsible for the general management of seven locations with 90 staff in the Asia/Australasia region and the Account management of two major airline customers. Before joining CargoHound he worked for DB Schenker and multinational B & H Worldwide in the UK, US, Australia and Asia. www.cargohound.com
//
For a detailed quote Ph: 1300 887 612 or salesaus@cffworld.com NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 // 21 www.cffworld.com
Air Fright | Sea freight | Railroad | Custom Clearance | Freight Consulting | Specialised cargo
FREIGHT
Australia’s first online marketplace for international freight CargoHound has freight industry tongues wagging
C
argoHound, Australia’s first
freight costs in
online marketplace for
a competitive
international freight, reached a
marketplace using
major milestone this month with more
reliable service
than 250 exporters and importers now
providers, which
registered to use the new service.
are rated through
Three years in the making, the
community
CargoHound site has been developed
feedback.
in close consultation with all sides of the
And for freight
industry.
forwarders with
This revolutionary tool connects
CargoHound there
exporters and importers with reliable
is no need for door
freight forwarders and carriers reducing
knocking or cold
the time, cost and risk of shipping
Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra,
products internationally.
Adelaide and Perth, attracting a total
With CargoHound exporters and importers can compare quotes from multiple “rated” service providers. They can then quickly identify the freight service that best suits their requirements and budget. “We are now averaging over 20 quote requests a week, which is massive,” says
audience of more than 400 people. “People are seeing it as an opportunity to outsource their logistics function,” Mr Smith says. “While we’re not going to pack the
Smith. The latest AIBS report released exporters believe transportation and freight costs are important
the pain off their hands.
factors adversely affecting their
“We make sure they’re working with
Smith.
price.”
competitiveness. And according to a 2014 Manufacturers Excellence Taskforce of Australia (META)
“These are all new business leads for
report, most Australian exporters have Why Use CargoHound?
little or no knowledge of costs passed
CargoHound is free to join for
onto them by freight forwarders.
service, officially launched in June, is
exporters and importers with no
attracting exporters and importers from
ongoing fees.
a broad range of industries including
inbox … even while they sleep,” says Mr
container for them, we can take much of
the right service provider at the right
Mr Smith says the new CargoHound
“We bring the leads directly into their
recently found that 65% of Australian
CargoHound CEO and Co-founder Ian
the freight forwarders on our database.”
calling to attract new business.
The CargoHound concept was the original brainchild of Kim Mauch who
Mr Smith says the service saves
has worked at the “coal face” of the
automotive, agriculture, fashion, food
valuable time and effort in sourcing the
import/export business for more than
and beverage, furniture and retail.
best freight provider.
25 years.
Launch events were held in Sydney,
Clients are able to quickly compare
//
As a long-term shipper, Ms
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 22
FREIGHT
Mauch could see where efficiency and transparency in the freight sector was lacking and knew exporters and importers
Seeking expert advice can save time and money
were crying out for a better way. So she teamed up with fellow founders Pete Johnson, a commodity trade specialist, and Ian Smith, an ex-Australian Trade Commissioner to bring the project to fruition. The trio funded the venture for the first three years before securing seed capital of $800,000 from a range of investors in Australia, the US and the UK. The funding has allowed the new business to hire key staff and expand and enhance its technical capabilities. And it has paved the way for
I
t pays to seek expert advice
needs and ensure compliance
before importing or exporting
with laws and regulations,
products across the globe.
including customs legislation.”
Making the wrong decision can
Mr Igbnoba says it is vital for
prove very costly.
exporters and importers to consult
“When moving freight you must
management to execute an ambitious
know what’s involved,” says Hubert
strategic sales and marketing plan.
Igbnoba, CEO of Change Freight
Just recently the CargoHound website was re-designed as a “mobile friendly”
Forwarding + Consulting (CFF).
decisions. “Making decisions without knowledge or know-how can be
CFF works closely with its clients
interactive portal – ideal for smartphones
to tailor the most efficient way to
and tablets.
move import and export freight.
“That means that when a quote request
with experts before making any
Such consultation is vital in order
very costly. “That is where we come in.” Established in 2006, CFF specialises in air and sea freight,
comes in, people who are on the road
to find the most cost effective
rail and road, customs clearance
can respond wherever they may be – with
solutions, says Mr Igbnoba.
and freight consulting.
whatever device they may have,” said Mr Smith.
CFF offers specialised freight
“We offer a more customised
consulting services to assist
and personal service than many
exporters and importers to analyse
of the larger companies, says Mr
increasing steadily, which has given the
and identify growth potential – to
Igbnoba. We see our customers as
CargoHound team plenty to bark about.
maximise efficiency and minimise
our partners … they are not just a
costs.
number.
Meanwhile, new registrations are
And the Hound team is also now sniffing out new business opportunities to valueadd to its existing logistics services. “We have a wealth of in-house expertise and experience to assist companies with tenders and new business opportunities,
“With our commodity trading
“We try to find the best options
experience, we can also facilitate
for every logistics transaction as a
matching of potential buyers and
priority.”
sellers,” Mr Igbnoba says.
CFF exports from Australia to key
“We can look at the processes
global trading regions including
explains Mr Smith. “Our industry experience
currently in place and show them
Asia, Middle East, Africa, US, UK
is invaluable.
how they can improve those
and Europe.
“Down the track we would like to expand our consultancy services to further assist clients.” •••
processes.
And CFF can facilitate door-to-
“CFF can help to determine the best direction for all logistics
To learn more about CargoHound visit: www.cargohound.com or speak to one their freight experts call: 1300 883 243.
door pickup and delivery, to and from anywhere in the world. •••
For more information contact CFF on ph: 1300 887 612 www.cffworld.com
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 23
FREIGHT
Expert tips on packaging and labelling for export Nada Young
I
n the food and beverage (F&B) sector, good packaging and labelling are almost as important as the quality of the product
itself. This is particularly true for export markets in
Labelling If you’ve spent any time researching market specific labelling and compliance you will know it can be a bit like unravelling a knotted fishing line. Follow one thread only to be
Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Korea and Taiwan,
snagged on an indecipherable jumble the
where I work.
deeper you go. F&B is a highly sensitive
Look and feel, functionality and compliance can sometimes act as opposing forces, but they must come together before your goods are ready for export.
sector where public health and safety are concerned. Generally speaking, it’s very easy to comply with local labelling regulations by simply affixing a small sticker with the necessary
Look and feel
information to your packaging. Your importer
Whether you’re in retail or food service, the
should be able to assist and in many cases
influence your packaging has on sales should
they will even print and affix the sticker in-
not be underestimated. To compete in an
market.
international arena you cannot afford to ignore good design. Resist the urge to add Chinese characters to your label or change the design so it appeals
Functionality When packaging a product for export it is important to keep in mind the following:
to Asian consumers. Despite what you’ll hear from design and consulting companies about
Breakage
market specific packaging design (it’s good
Take your mode of transport into
business) there is simply no need to design
consideration. The packaging must be
new packaging for each market.
designed to handle repeated loading
The best thing you can do is keep your
and unloading in warehouses, trucks and
brand integrity in tact and easily recognisable.
containers. It will be subject to different
You don’t see bottles of Coca-Cola with
types of weather, humidity and extreme
panda bears on them when you open the
temperatures. It may even be stacked,
chiller in
pushed, shoved, dragged or dropped on its
Taiwan, or Merlions on the coke can in Singapore. The last thing you want to do is confuse your
voyage. Depending on what you are exporting, consider wither hot, humid climates such
customer. Authenticity means everything in a
as those common to Southeast Asia, may
region that is plagued by food safety scandals
affect your product and take precautions. For
and counterfeit goods.
example, shipping your goods with a thermal
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 24
FREIGHT
NADA YOUNG
“The best thing you can do is keep your brand integrity in tact and easily recognisable.“ liner is a simple, low cost way to product
generally cost more to ship (large packs mean
against the most extreme temperature
less units per square meter in the container).
fluctuation.
I’ve seen major brands have to cut some of their best SKUs from the export portfolio
Shelf life
because the freight component pushed the
The longer the shelf life the better - most
price above the competition.
distributors get very nervous when presented with products that have a shelf life of less than 12 months.
Pilferage Luxury items and alcohol are targets for
There are some excellent new packaging
thieves. Just last month we had a pallet of
innovations that mean you can add months
wine arrive in Hong Kong with five cartons
to the shelf life of your product by simply
mysteriously missing from the middle of the
changing the plastic or closure.
stack. Make sure your goods are insured and consider using cartons with no company
Weight
logos or shrink-wrapping pallets to deter
International freight is expensive from
raiding hands. •••
Australia and New Zealand and bulky items
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 25
Asia Market Director of Incite, an export development agency for food and beverage companies trading with Asia www.exportincite. com
FREIGHT
In the first part of a TWO-PART series, Kim Mauch, Co-Founder of CargoHound, Australia’s first online marketplace for international freight, gives valuable tips on how to manage freight costs when exporting and importing …
Top 10 tips for managing freight costs
U
nderstanding and managing freight and logistics
This comes as no surprise to me. In my 20 plus years as
costs are critical to enhancing competitiveness in
a logistics professional I’ve been able to add real “meat”
global markets – yet are too often ignored, or put
to the bottom line of the businesses I’ve been involved
in the “too hard basket” by many Australian exporters and
with by working hard to understand and control the freight
importers.
component of the business cost structure. Here are the first
A joint study by the Manufacturing Excellence Taskforce of Australia (META) and the Export Council of Australia
of my Top 10 tips for Australian importers and exporters looking to do the same:
(ECA) in 2014 identified most Australian exporters had little or no knowledge about the breakdown of costs passed
1. Know your product
onto them by their freight forwarders and customs agents. Similarly, the 2014 Australian International Business Survey
• Do you know your Harmonised Tariff Code? When sourcing freight quotes, an accurate “product description”
(AIBS) found that 63 per cent of respondents nominated
– including knowing the correct codes - will assist in the
transport and freight costs as critical factors that hindered
most accurate outcome.
their international competitiveness.
• Are your products classified as Dangerous Goods? If so,
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 26
FREIGHT
do you know what code to assign?
air but this is not necessarily always the case.
• Do your goods require an Import Permit and/or
• To make the best decision, it is important to know how
government inspections at origin or destination port for
carriers charge for international shipping.
clearance?
Airlines bill by what is called a chargeable weight.
Many companies waste a large amount of money on
Chargeable weight is calculated from a combination of the
additional charges that could have been avoided by doing their “homework” up front.
weight and size of a shipment “volumetric weight”. Ocean carriers charge per container rates for shipping in standard containers (20’ and 40’ being the most common
2. Packaging: Do you know how you will pack your
sizes). While weight can factor into the price for ocean
goods for shipment?
carriers, charges tend to be based more on the size of a
• Don’t use worn or old cardboard boxes, use proper inner packing (i.e., Styrofoam, bubble wrap), do not over pack and re-enforce your boxes.
shipment. If you are shipping less than a container load, your price is often determined by cubic metre or volumetric weight.
• Perishable items, which may leak, must be packed in
With larger and heavier shipments, it is often much cheaper
solid, leak-proof boxes, containers or bags.
to ship by sea. As a shipment gets smaller, the margin
• Use standard size pallets and stacking sizes. Ensure
between the prices gets smaller and sometimes air will end
boxes are secured on the pallet (e.g. with shrink wrap) and don’t exceed the pallet edges.
up less expensive. Working out the most cost effective shipping method
• If not using pallets and cartons, securely pack your
(i.e. FCL/LCL/Air) should also take into consideration the
goods to ensure safe transit (e.g. Lashing may be required
following:
for Full Container Loads (FCL)).
• Transit/shipping time
• Calculate your weights and dimensions correctly,
• Budget
measure Length, Width and Height from extremities,
• Condition of shipment i.e. perishable, dangerous goods
and know the gross cargo weight of each item including
etc.
packaging weight.
It goes without saying that where possible, you should
• Hazardous materials/dangerous goods shipments must
plan shipping well ahead of required date.
comply with relevant Dangerous Goods Regulations. • Check wood shipping regulations as appropriate.
5. Are you insured and do you have the correct policy?
Businesses using wood pallets, for instance, might not
• Don’t forget to take insurance on your shipment – Many
realise that some countries regulate wood packaging
people overlook this and pay the price!
to control pests and ask companies to follow specific
• You should shop around for Marine Cargo insurance for
standards.
the loss and /or damage of goods while in transit. • It covers the transportation of goods from one place to
3. Labelling: Ensure clear and accurate labelling
another. The mode of transport can be by sea, air, rail, road,
• Ensure your package is labelled correctly. Each piece
parcel post or courier sending. •••
must be legibly and durably marked with the name and address of both the Shipper and Consignee. Incorrect
Kim Mauch is an import/export veteran with 25 years’
address labelling can delay packages and increase
experience in the global freight industry.
shipping charges.
In PART TWO of this series in our next edition, Kim will
• Ensure the shipper, consignee, origin, destination and
provide the final FIVE tips on:
shipping marks/goods description are clearly marked on
• Paying freight costs
the “packaging labels” and secured to the goods for travel.
• How to identify hidden fees • Cross docking v container delivery
4. What is the most cost efficient shipping method?
• Demurrage: storage and detention
• Typically shipping by ocean is cheaper than shipping by
• How to choose a service provider •••
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 27
TRAVEL
World’s best carrier … Qatar Airways will soon fly to Sydney
Qatar Airways to fly direct to Sydney The Australian government has signed a new air service agreement capacity between the two countries.
T
he move is expected to give a big boost to
The new agreement also offers the option for Qatar
agricultural exports as well as tourism.
Airways to start more flights to Australia’s regional
The changes will add 21 extra flights to both sides
per week.
locations. Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said the extra flight
Qatar Airways will run daily direct services between
capacity from the Qatar deal is a boost for the tourism
Sydney and Doha starting in 2016, as part of the new deal.
industry and will spur growth in the Australia-Qatar and
Sydney will be the third Australian destination serviced by
Australia-Europe routes. “Under our air services arrangements with Qatar, airlines
the airline, which already operates direct return services between Doha, Melbourne and Perth.
can also operate unlimited services between Qatar and
The route will be serviced by a Boeing 777-300, with
regional locations such as Darwin, Adelaide, Gold Coast
the business class cabin containing 41 seats. Passengers travelling in business class can expect 78-inch lie-flat beds
and Cairns,” said Mr Truss. Qatar is one of the key trading partners for Australia worth more than $500 million in 2013.
and an on-demand à la carte menu service.
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 28
TRAVEL
There has been an estimated 15.7 percent increase in the number of travellers from the United Arab Emirates to Australia in the past year while the number of Australians visiting the UAE has had a 16.2 percent spurt. In June, Qatar Airways was judged the world’s best carrier in the annual SkyTrax awards, in recognition to its attention to details in spaning every aspect of the aircraft. The economy seats of Qatar Airways were also lauded for being the roomiest and most comfortable in the world. The Dohabased airline also offers the passengers, some 2000 entertainment options on their screens. Qatar Airways’ two-storey Al Mourjan Business Lounge at Hamad International Airport is one of the world’s largest, with 10,000 square metres of space for up to 1,000 guests at a time. The lounge has private rooms, family spaces and a games room. There’s also a nursery and shower rooms with amenities. Hamad International Airport also houses a spa that is accessible for all passengers, with a swimming pool, squash courts, sauna and steam rooms. •••
//
“Under our air services arrangements with Qatar, airlines can also operate unlimited services between Qatar and regional locations such as Darwin, Adelaide, Gold Coast and Cairns,” NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 29
ON
LOCAL EVENTS 1 NOVEMBER 9-12 International Mining & Resources Industry Exhibition & Conference (IMARC)
NOVEMBER 11
State of the Nation China
NOVEMBER 17
NOVEMBER 25
Market Information Package (MIP) – Education Masterclass Brisbane
Overview of Shanghai’s Free Trade Zone
Where: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre Ph: 03 9008 5946 www.imarcmelbourne.com www.austrade.gov.au/ events
Panel discussion: China FTA Host: Australia China Business Council Where: Westpac Tower Two International Towers Sydney 200 Barangaroo Ave Sydney Time: 6.30pm-8pm Ph: 02 9247 0349 www.acbc.com.au
NOVEMBER 10
NOVEMBER 12
NOVEMBER 24
NOVEMBER 25
Investment Opportunities in Timor-Leste Webinar
Market Information Package (MIP) – Education Masterclass Sydney
SME Roundtable
Market Information Package (MIP) – Education Masterclass Perth
Host: Austrade Where: Online Time: 12pm-1pm FREE Presentations from ANZ Bank, International Finance Corporation, Heineken Ph: 13 28 78 www.austrade.gov.au/ events
Session 1: 9am-10.30am Session 2: 11am-12.30pm Session 3: 2am-3.30pm FREE Host: Austrade Where: The Portside Centre 207 Kent Street Sydney NSW Ph: 13 28 78 www.austrade.gov.au/ events
//
Session 1: 9am-10.30am Session 2: 11am-12.30pm Session 3: 2am-3.30pm FREE Host: Austrade Where: The Pullman King George Square Brisbane QLD Ph: 13 28 78 www.austrade.gov.au/ events
China Workshop (Issues, challenges, opportunities) Host: Australia China Business Council Where: Hunt & Hunt Level 13 Gateway 1 Macquarie Place Sydney Time: 8am-9am Ph: 02 9247 0349 www.acbc.com.au
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
Host: Australia China Business Council Where: Hunt & Hunt Level 13 Gateway 1 Macquarie Place Sydney Time: 1.30pm-2pm Ph: 02 9247 0349 www.acbc.com.au
Session 1: 9am-10.30am Session 2: 11am-12.30pm Session 3: 2am-3.30pm FREE Host: Austrade Where: Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre Perth WA Ph: 13 28 78 www.austrade.gov.au/ events
// 30
ON
INTERNATIONAL EVENTS NOVEMBER 8-11
NOVEMBER 11-13
5 NOVEMBER 16-19
Australia Future Unlimited Education Exhibition Japan 2015
ProWine China International trade fair for wine & spirits
Medica 2015 World Forum for Medicine
Where: Tokyo & Osaka, Japan Host: Austrade Ph: 13 28 78
Where: Shanghai www.prowinechina.com
3
Where: Messe Dusseldorf Dusseldorf, Germany www.messe-dusseldorf.de
www.austrade.gov.au
NOVEMBER 17-19 Intermodal Europe Transport, storage, logistics exhibition World’s leading container event Where: Hamburg Messe Hamburg, Germany www.hamburg-messe.de
NOVEMBER 16-19 Compamed 2015 International Trade Fair High tech solutions for medical technology Where: Messe Dusseldorf Dusseldorf, Germany www.compamed.de
2
4
NOVEMBER 11-13
NOVEMBER 11-13
NOVEMBER 17-19
NOVEMBER 17-20
FHC China 18th International Exhibition for Food, Drink, Hospitality, Food service, Bakery
Tea & Coffee China
Communicast 2015 2nd Communications, Technology, Enterprise & Convergence Solutions Show
Shanghai World of Packaging Incorporating Pro Pac Asia, Bulk Pex, Food Pex, China-Pharm
Where: Myanmar Event Park, Yangon www.communicastmyanmar.com
Where: Shanghai New International Expo Centre Shanghai www.mdna.com
Where: Shanghai New International Expo Centre Shanghai www.teaandcoffeechina.com
Where: Shanghai www.fhcchina.com
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 31
//
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
// 32