2021 - Export Council of Australia

December 13, 2021 Members' stories, News & Events paulajimenezex

Visdon: Finding success during a global pandemic

About Visdon

Founded in 2018, Visdon provides brain health supplements that are authentic, natural and made in Australia. Their journey started when a group of passionate researchers, pharmacists and health professionals, united in Sydney with a common cause to provide natural supplements to improve cognitive function and boost memory.

Since their formation, Visdon’s growth as a company has been rapid and aligned with an increasingly growing demand for brain support products globally. After starting out as a single warehouse in Sydney, the company has now expanded to Melbourne and Hong Kong, with a fully fledged Marketing and Sales team headquartered in Shanghai, China.

Furthermore, they have partnered with multiple countries for R&D, ensuring the production of world-class products whilst maintaining the highest consumer safety criteria. It is part of the company’s vision to increasingly invest in research and clinical trials for the development of brain health products that benefit humanity.

One of the company’s core values is to support the local Australian economy and help promote Australian-made products on a global level. As a result, Visdon has purposely partnered with manufacturers and researchers that are based in Australia.

Export focus and product distribution

Visdon’s products, such as Rebrain, are primarily focused towards middle aged and senior consumers, although new products are currently in development to also support brain health for pregnant women, adolescents and children.

Visdon has partnered with hundreds of distributors worldwide and has been featured on over 100 popular online platforms in China, such as JingDong (JD).

In Australia, Visdon enjoys broad coverage across major retail pharmacies and online eCommerce platforms. Their products are available in 68 local Australian pharmacies across NSW, VIC, SA, WA and QLD.

Visdon exports their products internationally with their core market focus on Mainland China, Taiwan and South Korea. Since the start of the 2021/2022 financial year, Visdon has exported over 20 different types of natural supplements to multiple overseas distributors. In addition, they are in the process of achieving market penetration in Malaysia and Vietnam.

Finding success during a global pandemic

With the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, it was a very challenging year for both businesses and consumers. The shutting of borders, pausing of international travel and the occurrence of multiple lockdowns, all contributed to an unprecedented disruption to normal life.

Despite these circumstances, Visdon overcame massive logistical and political challenges that impacted production, supply chain, and retail to successfully launch Rebrain, their flagship product in mid 2020.

The promotion and distribution hurdles brought upon by the pandemic were partly solved by an embracing of digital and eCommerce. As a result, the company partnered with distributors with a strong online presence and obtained listings on reputable eCommerce platforms.

The results have been satisfying for the company with sales revenue growing steadily since Rebrain was launched, corresponding with a target audience that is increasingly becoming more educated and aware of the importance of brain health and preventing the decline of cognitive function and memory loss.

The reception for Visdon has been exceedingly positive and it has won the following prestigious accolades.

– Rebrain won the 2021 NutraIngredients-Asia Award for Product of the Year: Botanical

– The company won the 2021 Stevie Award for International Business Award

– One of their co-founders, Lara Tang, won the 2021 Stevie Award for Women in Business

To learn more about Visdon, visit their website or follow them on Social (Facebook: VisdonAustralia, Instagram: @visdonaustralia).

December 7, 2021 News & Events paulajimenezex

Reducing red tape for Australian services exporters

New rules agreed at the World Trade Organization (WTO) will reduce red tape and regulatory costs for Australian services exporters, making it easier for Australian businesses to export to the world.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan welcomed the agreement which comprises 67 WTO Members – including the 27 EU Member States – accounting for over 90% of global services trade.

“This is a real win for Australian services exporters. We have agreed to cut red tape by reducing complex and costly regulatory burdens in overseas markets,” Mr Tehan said.

“Services is the fastest growing and most dynamic sector in the Australian economy. The rules developed will help Australian services exporters address the practical challenges of operating in other markets.”

“Although a temporary setback, the postponement of the 12^th WTO Ministerial Conference must steel our resolve and the conclusion of the Joint Statement Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation shows what can be achieved through dialogue and negotiation.

“Led by Australia, Costa Rica and the EU, the Initiative is the culmination of four years of hard work and is open to all WTO Members. I encourage those that are not yet participating to join.”

A joint OECD-WTO study calculated that implementation of these rules could generate annual trade cost savings in the range of USD 150 billion.

The Declaration on the Conclusion of Negotiations on Services Domestic Regulation adopted today is available here: www.wto.org.

THE HON DAN TEHAN MP
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment

November 22, 2021 News & Events paulajimenezex

5 top findings of the DHL Export Barometer 2021 report

The DHL Export Barometer is an annual report compiled to provide insights about the export business and identify emerging industry trends in Australia. Launched 2003, it produces research specific to Australian exporters, by shedding light on the issues influencing export businesses and highlighting significant shifts within the exportation industry.

Results of the DHL Export Barometer 2021 reveal a strong recovery in Australian exports this year. A majority of Australian businesses are positive that the global export market will continue to recover next year.

More than 1,400 businesses from the DHL Express and the Export Council of Australia databases were surveyed by ACA Research in September 2021. These businesses – located across the country from New South Wales to Tasmania to Western Australia – provide an accurate representation of Australia’s exportation industry sentiments and insights for 2022.

Businesses reveal an optimistic outlook for 2022

Last year, COVID-19 battered Australia’s export industry, with 47% of exporters believing that export revenue was unlikely to increase in the following months – the lowest since the survey was first conducted 18 years ago. However, as Australian businesses project into the new year, they are positive that the export logistics industry is on the road to recovery. 59% are optimistic that by the end of 2022, export revenue will return to pre-pandemic levels. This is signalled by:

An increase in customer demand
Sales and marketing ventures
Launch of new products and services
Hiring of new employees
Wage increases

“Australian businesses have remained steadfast, and it is positive to see more businesses in 2021 reporting growth and 69% expecting further increases in 2022,” Gary Edstein, CEO and Senior Vice President, DHL Express Australia, summarises.

Impact of COVID-19 on export revenue lessens

Generally, businesses have reported to have done better in 2021 than during the height of the pandemic last year – with 17% more businesses enjoying growth in export orders and a third, an increase in revenue.

COVID-19 continued to affect the performance of businesses, with export orders and revenue numbers still less than what it was pre-pandemic. Although this is so, the proportion of businesses reporting a decline due to the pandemic was less this year than it was in 2020 (48% in 2021, compared to 57% in 2020).

Export challenges for businesses remain due to COVID-19

Corporations continue to face an uphill battle, needing to deal with problems that have arisen due to COVID-19 – making recovery complex and difficult. These were attributed to an increase in freight cost (65%), decreased supply of products or raw materials (43%) and international travel restrictions (43%).

More businesses focus on exporting to North America

On the whole this year, businesses were more judicious in their world trade – choosing to target fewer foreign markets for their export activities. The most popular export market was New Zealand, targeted by 58% of businesses, followed by North America, Europe and the UK.

Although New Zealand remains the most common export destination, more companies chose North America as their main export destination this year, with 27% of businesses prioritising the continent, compared to New Zealand’s 25%. This knocks New Zealand off the top spot, a position they have held for several years.

More exporters use e-commerce to generate orders

COVID-19 has also caused major shifts in working arrangements and lifestyle choices in 2021. Remote work and increased online shopping has resulted in 82% of export businesses incorporating e-commerce solutions to shore up their sales orders. This is a significant increase of 8% from the previous year.

Channelling efforts into innovative strategies to increase brand awareness or enhance the customer journey has proven to be rewarding. In 2021, enterprises that engaged in novel tactics like these reported a growth in revenue. A significant proportion of Australian export firms continue to prioritise investing in digital efforts, with 40% of businesses doing so in online marketing and 34% in website design.

A promising 2022 for Australian export businesses

Although the pandemic’s effects are still felt as businesses continue to grapple with the aftermath, many are optimistic that the global export market is set to grow next year. With the support of a robust export logistics network, businesses can look forward to steady recovery and growth in 2022. View the full DHL Export Barometer 2021 report online.

November 10, 2021 News & Events paulajimenezex

Exporters views sought on Export Control Rules 2021

Public consultation is now open on proposed amendments to the Export Control Rules 2021.

Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, David Hazlehurst said the consultation was part of a six-month review into the new legal framework for agricultural exports.

“Earlier this year we introduced a new legal system for agricultural exports, the Export Control Act 2020 and the Export Control Rules 2021,” Mr Hazlehurst said.

“We’ve reviewed the rules to make sure everything is working as intended, and now we’re considering some refinements.

“Most of the proposed changes are minor, with some more substantial amendments to the rules for Meat and Plant exports.

“We want to modernise our export regulation, making it easier for exporters to comply, while protecting Australia’s reputation as a world leader in trade and continuing to comply with importing country requirements.

“And the best way we can achieve this is through feedback from the frontline.

“If you’re a farmer, primary producer, an exporter, or someone who works in agricultural exports, we want to hear from you.”

You can find out more about these changes and provide feedback by visiting the department’s Have Your Say platform. Consultation closes on 30 November 2021.

Fast Facts

The new legal framework for agricultural exports, the Export Control Act 2020 and the Export Control Rules 2021 (the Rules) began on 28 March 2021.
Amendments are proposed to the rules for meat, wild game, poultry, rabbit and ratite, plant, organic goods and animals.
The changes to the Export Control (Meat and Meat Products) Rules 2021 will give effect to an approach agreed with industry where meat inspection activities will be delivered by Food Safety Meat Assessors only where it is required by an importing country.
The changes to the Export Control (Plant and Plant Products) Rules 2021 will improve regulatory arrangements for inspecting vessels exporting Australian grain.
No amendments are proposed to the rules for eggs, fish, milk, wood and miscellaneous.

November 10, 2021 News & Events paulajimenezex

Call for submissions for the Australia-Singapore Green Economy Agreement

On 10 June 2021, Prime Minister Morrison and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee agreed to explore a Green Economy Agreement (GEA) between the two countries. The GEA would facilitate trade and investment in environmental goods and services, strengthen environmental governance, and contribute efforts to build global capacity to address climate change.

The GEA has the potential to unlock exciting new opportunities for Australia’s clean energy export sector and to enhance investment and trade in environmental goods and services. It can help build new capacities to address climate change, whilst supporting economic growth and job creation in green sectors. The GEA will support our transition to a new energy economy and drive new investments, including in hydrogen.

Australia and Singapore are like-minded countries that strongly support a rules-based system in promoting open markets and free trade, which continue to be critical at a time of increasing economic uncertainty. We envisage that the GEA will be practical, ambitious, and innovative, reduce barriers to trade and enable technologies to catalyse business and commercial opportunities.

During the 12th meeting of the Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee on 27 August 2021, Ministers agreed to establish a Joint GEA Working Group with a view to launching formal GEA negotiations by 1 October 2021. Negotiations between Australia and Singapore on the GEA commenced on 22 September 2021.

Australia’s Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan and Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong met on 11 October 2021 to take stock of negotiations on the GEA. They released a joint Vision Statement which outlines a shared ambition for the GEA.

The GEA was promoted at the Australian pavilion at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November 2021.

Submissions

To assist the Australian Government in negotiations with Singapore on the GEA, DFAT would be interested to hear from stakeholders including industry organisations, businesses and community organisations. They will be undertaking targeted consultations but also welcome written submissions from any interested stakeholders — which can be sent to AustSingGEA@dfat.gov.au.

In particular they would be interested to hear from you regarding:

How a GEA could boost Australian two-way trade and investment in clean energy, and environmental goods and services exports.
Any trade and investment barriers (especially Non-Tariff Barriers) that are impacting the ability to undertake trade of environmental goods and services with Singapore.
Any suggested changes to, or opportunities for, policy or regulatory settings that could encourage improved collaboration in the clean energy, and green economy sectors.
How a GEA with Singapore could assist Australia’s low emissions technology pathway including for priority technologies (clean hydrogen, low emissions steel and aluminium, energy storage, carbon capture and storage and soil carbon measurement), and in enabling technologies and associated services.
Opportunities and challenges to access, or improve access, to green or sustainable finance, or to identify and advance finance options and investor partnerships with Singapore.
Opportunities and challenges in advancing cooperation on voluntary carbon markets with Singapore and for the South East Asian region.

Submissions will be treated as public and may be published on this website, unless the author specifically requests that the submission, or part thereof, be handled in confidence.

The closing date for submissions is 30 November 2021.

November 10, 2021 News & Events paulajimenezex

Exporting tyres? You are going to need a licence

Australia’s ban on the export of whole baled waste tyres begins on 1 December and exporters requiring a licence to continue to export tyres overseas are encouraged to apply now.

From December 1, the export of waste tyres is banned except for:

tyres that have been processed into crumbs, buffings, granules or shreds
tyres that have been processed into fuel
tyres exported for re-treading
tyres that will be re-used on vehicles overseas.

Acting Deputy Secretary, Environment Reforms, James Tregurtha, said that these types of tyres can be exported, but only when exporters are able to satisfy the requirements of the new regulation.

“The Department does have strict criteria that apply to every export licence.

“When tyres are exported for re-treading or reuse, suppliers must have evidence of a commercial relationship with an importer or with a verified re-treading facility.

“All exporters must also pass a fit and proper person test and declare each consignment to the Department and Australian Border Force,” Mr Tregurtha said.

Australia’s waste export ban is world-leading with Australia the only country to have banned the export of its unprocessed waste.

From 1 December whole-baled tyres will no longer be able to be exported from Australia.

Australia has already banned the export of unprocessed glass and mixed plastics.

The ban on tyres starts on December 1, with unprocessed single polymer plastics to be banned from 1 July 2022; and paper and cardboard banned from 1 July 2024.

Exporters wishing to apply for a licence should go to https://rawr.awe.gov.au/

November 3, 2021 News & Events paulajimenezex

Does your business need finance to diversify in a changing world?

As the Government’s export credit agency, Export Finance Australia supports Australian businesses by providing a range of financial solutions to exporters and businesses that are part of an export-related supply chain.

Through loans, bonds and guarantees, Export Finance Australia plays an integral role in supporting Australian businesses to expand into new markets when finance from private financiers is unavailable.

Facing market challenges and disruptions in the past 19 months, many exporters have sought to diversify into new markets. Whether your business is looking to adapt to a changing market, pivot to seize new opportunities or grow internationally, Export Finance Australia’s experienced team is available to support businesses to diversify in a changing world.

They could support your business to diversify with:

Working Capital Support – To finance against supplier invoices or international purchase orders
Capital investment – To purchase new equipment and expand your export operations
International expansion – To establish or grow your business operations internationally
Online Growth – To invest in e-commerce and grow your sales to international customers

To discuss your finance needs and the options available, please get in touch at 1800 093 724 or visit exportfinance.gov.au/diversify for more information.

October 19, 2021 Asia, News & Events paulajimenezex

Impact of new China decrees on imported food and food establishments

To advise exporters and processing establishments of new Chinese requirements for imported food and overseas food establishments that will take effect from 1 January 2022.

Summary of key points

These requirements require all overseas manufacturers of imported food to be registered with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). The requirements capture a broad range of food products, including low risk foods, and are notified in Decree 248 – Regulations on the Registration and Administration of Overseas Producers of Imported Food and Decree 249 – Administrative Measures on Import and Export Food Safety.

These regulations require all food manufacturers, processors and storage facilities which handle food exported to China to be registered with GACC in one of two ways:

Registration through the competent authority (in Australia, the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment) which will first require assessment and approval (new foods now requiring registration of food businesses are italicised)

This requirement is now applicable for meat and meat products, casings, aquatic products, dairy products, edible bird’s nest and bird’s nest products, bee products, eggs and egg products, edible fats and oils, stuffed wheaten food, edible grains, milled grain industry products and malt, fresh and dehydrated vegetables and dry beans, condiments and seasonings, nuts and seeds, dry fruits, unroasted coffee beans and cocoa beans, food for special dietary uses, and health food*.

*Health food refers to food that claim to have specific health functions or aims to supplement vitamins and minerals.

Self-registration with GACC directly or via an agent or importer

This requirement is applicable for all foods other than those listed above.

Labelling changes

The decrees also notify changes to labelling requirements. Key changes include, foods must be labelled in Chinese, or Chinese and English (Decree 249, Article 30) and a GACC issued registration number or the registration number approved by the competent authority of the exporting country must be displayed (Decree 248, Article 15) on both the inner and outer packaging.

The department is seeking implementation guidance from China and is working on processes for implementation. Additional guidance will be provided for exporters when it is available.

To assist this effort, please provide questions or comments on the decrees to your industry body for forwarding to the department.

Exporters are also encouraged to work closely with their importers to continue to ensure compliance with China’s requirements.

Further advice will be issued as additional information becomes available.

You can download the Market Access Advices below:

If you would like to be kept informed, email the department at exportstandards@agriculture.gov.au to indicate your desire to receive further information.

October 11, 2021 Asia, News & Events paulajimenezex

Blueprint for Trade and Investment with Indonesia

Australian business should take a fresh look at Indonesia, the powerhouse nation on our doorstep and soon to be among the largest economies in the world. With a strong middle class – 52 million and growing – forecasters predict Indonesia’s swift post-COVID recovery, a testament to Indonesia’s resilient growth and commitment to reform.

In 2020, the “Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA)” entered into force which gives Australian businesses major advantages in the Indonesian market. For example:

more than 99 per cent of Australian goods exports by value will enter duty free or under liberalised rules
Australian investors will benefit from greater certainty and protection for their investments in Indonesia
the agreement removes barriers to two-way trade, increases bilateral movement of workers and facilitates joint ventures in third countries.

To assist Australian companies take advantage of the Agreement and deepen their engagement with Indonesia, the Australian government has produced a “Blueprint for Trade and Investment with Indonesia”.

The Blueprint provides practical and strategic guidance for Australian businesses considering market opportunities in the Indonesian economy for the first time. It also helps Australian business take advantage of complementarities between the two economies – Australia has the goods, expertise and know-how which align with Indonesia’s major economic priorities.

Sectors highlighted in the Blueprint include health and aged care, agriculture and food, education and training and resources and energy services. The Blueprint also highlights opportunities for Australian companies to establish partnerships in Indonesia, including in Indonesia’s dynamic services sector, and to diversify their markets and supply chains.

The Blueprint will assist both Australia and Indonesia to get the maximum benefit out of IA-ECPA as we look towards economic recovery following the pandemic.

This story is an original publication of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

September 27, 2021 Members' stories, News & Events paulajimenezex

Featured member: C.T. Freight

C.T. Freight Pty Ltd is 100% Australian owned company offering comprehensive freight forwarding and logistics solutions worldwide. With dedicated offices throughout Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore and the USA, along with an extensive network of partners worldwide, their services comprise of transport and distribution globally, no matter the size, weight, origin or destination.

Founded in 1981 by Clive Thomas (owner and CEO of the company), celebrating their 40^th year in freight forwarding C.T. Freight has obtained accolades both internationally and domestically. They are the largest independent freight forwarder in Australia, and hold the number 1 IATA ranking for airfreight export from Australia.

C.T. Freight is known for the highest level of reliability, exceptional quality of service and superiority in expertise, through understanding of the requirements for each of our Australian and international customers. Being well established in the local market provides us with a major advantage. With substantial market position and direct, long-lasting contracts with airlines and shipping lines, this unique position has provided them with the ability to respond to specific market requirements and deliver tailored solutions, no matter the size of the customer.

Their range of services include:

General Goods Transport by Air/Sea/Truck/Rail
Perishable (cool room and freezer facilities)
Aviation/Pharmaceutical/Time Critical (24/7 coverage)
E-commerce/FBA/Express/Courier
Supply Chain Management/Warehousing/Distribution
Project Management/Aircraft or Vessel Charter
Customs Brokerage

All their Australian warehouses have state of the art cool room and freezer facilities and are bonded for both customs and quarantine. Their in-house brokerage team has extensive knowledge in all customs and bio-security regulations. With 24/7 availability and support, they can handle all customs clearances including perishable, pharmaceutical, AOG and special projects.

Working with government and regulatory bodies, C.T. Freight has been on the forefront of developments in the international freight forwarding industry. Collaborating with the paramount international IT solution provider and through development in digital integration, they strive to be an industry leader, actively working on new ways to improve our services.

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought with it a new set of challenges for international supply chains. During this time, C.T Freight have had to be agile and adjust in order to deal with the ever changing landscape of international transport. The Australian Government announced a support package for Australian exporters of perishable goods (International Freight Assistance Mechanism – IFAM) and they were selected as one of six freight forwarders to assist in the delivery of the package to exporters. They can assist with any complicated transportation solutions that have been hampered by the pandemic.

C.T. Freight is a reliable worldwide partner, offering a comprehensive range of freight forwarding solutions, and specialises in customising services to suit individual customer requirements.

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