Click on the links below to learn more

A number of factors need to be carefully considered when evaluating your readiness to export including;

Management Commitment

It is vital that you take time to consider the following questions prior to exporting:

• Why do you want to export?
• Is exporting one of your solid business objectives, such as increasing sales volume, developing a broader and more stable customer base, or is it just frivolous?

Many businesses tend to achieve export success if the reason for exporting is in alignment with their overall strategic goals and objectives. A strong and sustained commitment from management is also usually required to successfully compete internationally. Management commitment to an export program usually requires a significant devotion of time by key personnel and committing resources to develop and manage the program effectively.  A long-term commitment from management can facilitate market entry and expansion, and therefore lead to export success.

Resources and expertise

Personnel expertise

Does your business have access to experienced export personnel to carry out required export activities? Exporting requires management and personnel equipped with international trade experience and a number of special skills such as organising international transport, handling customs clearance, foreign sales experience, and language capabilities.  If you do not have these resources in-house you can often access them through consultants or other providers such as specialist logistics companies. In areas such as marketing Austrade are able to provide specialist assistance in many overseas markets.

Finance

Does your business have sufficient funds to finance export marketing and operations? Pursuing international markets can require significant funding in the initial stages and ongoing to finance working capital, product modifications, logistics and operations etc.

You should talk to your Bank regarding your export plans and the level of support they are prepared to provide.