Dynamic Export E-magazine Nov/Dec 2015

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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