Growing your export business

Expanding into new markets involves market research – ie. finding out about things you need to know such as import duties, regulations, distribution channels, market size and growth, competition, demographics and local production.

The Austrade website lists over 80 countries in its market information section where you can find information about a particular country including economic and political climate, business etiquette and your industry specific information.

Connect with your peers

One of the best ways to expand to new markets is to learn from other companies that fit your profile. Either through your industry trade association or your supplier network or by participating in networking events, you will find other companies that are willing to share their experiences in export expansion and to identify the opportunities and risks. Your freight forwarders are also good resources for discussing export expansion.

Contact your Local Export Adviser

No matter where you are in NSW, you can access the services of an Export Advisor who can assist in finding new markets. Our Export Adviser will work with you to explore your product’s market potential, distribution channels, and regulatory requirements in potential markets. They will keep working with you to find partners and successfully complete your export sales into those new markets. Connect with an Export Adviser near you.

Some useful websites for market research

• The Asian Development Bank – www.adb.org
• Austrade – www.austrade.gov.au/industrycountry
  Austrade’s website provides country and industry data as well as links to other sources.
• CIA website – https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – www.dfat.gov.au
• Market Research – www.marketresearch.com
• The Research and Markets Company – www.researchandmarkets.com
  Market research reports covering major products and markets are available for a price.