BDO Manufacturing Luncheon Event

Capital is a critical driver of business growth, particularly in today’s complex global trade landscape, where access to funding can directly influence a company’s ability to scale, innovate, and expand internationally. 🌏📈

Last Tuesday, the Export Council of Australia, in partnership with BDO, hosted an exclusive Manufacturing Luncheon, bringing together senior leaders from the NSW export and manufacturing sectors for a focused and insightful discussion.

Led by Paul Childers, Partner, Deal Advisory at BDO, the session explored how businesses can better position themselves to attract investment and optimise the capital-raising process.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of financial preparedness, including robust management accounting systems, accurate financial reporting, and well-organised documentation, particularly when preparing for capital raising or M&A transactions. The role of legal advice and effective shareholder structures was also emphasised.

Broader strategic themes included innovation, brand positioning, sustainability, and strong customer relationships as key drivers in attracting investor confidence. Key performance metrics such as revenue, profitability, and capital expenditure were discussed, alongside the challenges and opportunities of exporting

Designed as an intimate and collaborative forum, the luncheon provided a valuable opportunity to exchange insights, forge meaningful connections, and contribute to shaping a resilient and competitive export sector.

We extend our sincere thanks to BDO for hosting this valuable luncheon and for providing a platform to discuss such crucial issues facing all Australian exporters today.

A huge thank you to all the business representatives who joined us for this special discussion. We look forward to your continued engagement in ECA’s trade-focused initiatives.✨

Asia‑Pacific Trade Awards Launch

Last night, we officially launched the Asia‑Pacific Trade Awards at The Rocks in Sydney. The Harbour Bridge and Opera House set a spectacular backdrop for a milestone moment in our region’s trade story.

These Awards recognise excellence across the full spectrum of international trade. They feature sector‑based categories that allow diverse businesses at different stages of their trade journey to be acknowledged for their achievements and contributions to the region.

But the real heart of the Awards lies in the why.

Trade promotes peace, prosperity, and connection. It builds trust between nations, creates jobs and generates income, and opens doors for communities. In a world that feels increasingly fractured, trade remains one of the most powerful forces for cooperation.

It was inspiring to see the room filled with businesses engaged in international trade and senior members of the diplomatic community. It’s a reminder that our region’s success depends on partnership.

During the event, we held a short panel discussion with traders. They underscored five clear reminders when doing business across borders:
🔹 Connections matter: being referred to the right stakeholders can accelerate opportunities dramatically.
🔹 Opportunities persist: even when regulations are challenging, determined businesses continue to find pathways forward.
🔹 Efficiency is essential: traders must constantly innovate to offset unexpected cost increases.
🔹 Trust is everything: it keeps customers coming back and underpins long‑term relationships.
🔹 Customer engagement is evolving: businesses are exploring new channels, including live streaming, to reach and retain audiences.

We also highlighted the importance of supporting those facing particular barriers, such as young visual artists seeking to build sustainable creative careers, including on the global stage. Thanks to the University of Sydney artists for sharing their backgrounds and approaches with us.

A heartfelt thank you to our event sponsors: Coface, Swan Wine Group, Platinum Restaurant Group, and Advantage Accountants and Advisors. Their partnership made this launch possible.

Nominations for the Asia‑Pacific Trade Awards are now open, and we look forward to seeing innovative, ambitious businesses from across the region put their stories forward.

🔗 Nominations can be made here: https://export.org.au/asia-pacific-trade-awards/