The Export Pathways Program training and mentoring program for Western Australian agribusinesses could be just what you’re looking for, and Round 2 is now open for expressions of interest.

The program provides one-on-one mentoring and group training modules where you will develop skills and knowledge and access targeted market information to improve your export success.

It’s delivered in two streams, one for those who have not exported yet and one for those looking to expand.

Delivered by Export Connect, a specialist export advisory service, the program is funded by the WA Government (via the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development) with a 50% contribution towards the participation fees.  Source: DPIRD |  Photo: Shutterstock

Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for the Investment Attraction Fund, designed to attract further investment to Western Australia that will create local jobs in new and emerging industries, and contribute to a more diversified economy.

The Investment Attraction Fund presents an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to establish and grow their operations in WA by accessing support and financial assistance of up to $5 million.

EOI submissions are sought from a range of industries that align with WA's priority sectors, including: primary industries, energy, mining and mining equipment technology services (METS), space industries, defence industries, health and medical life sciences, international education, and tourism, events and the arts.

Submissions that will improve the value and productivity across multiple sectors of the economy, such as supply chain development, advanced manufacturing, science, innovation and technology, and environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks are also encouraged. 

Shortlisted submissions will be invited to submit a more detailed application.  Source and Image:  JTSI

The Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment has negotiated new market access with Mexico’s National Service of Health, Food Safety and Quality (SENASICA) for the export of frozen lobsters from Australia to Mexico.

SENASICA has approved the following species for export into Mexico from Australia:

• Eastern Rock Lobster – Sagmariasus spp.
• Western Rock Lobster and Tropical Rock Lobsters – Panulirus spp.
• Southern Rock Lobster – Jasus spp.
• Slipper Lobsters – Scyllarides spp.

Effective from 9 March 2022, a new health certificate for the export of lobster to Mexico is available to exporters. Exporters may request the FX46 certificate with endorsement 5243, which states: The lobsters were caught in Australian waters and the fishery is regulated by the relevant government authority in Australia. 

Please contact exportstandards@awe.gov.au if you have any queries.  More...  Source:  DAWE  |  Photo:  DPIRD

In Morocco, demand for top-quality beef is rising despite high local tariffs, Austrade reports in its latest Middle East and Africa update for Australian exporters.  Market research suggests the emergence of an affluent market segment that is willing to pay for Australian Angus and Wagyu. Currently, meat tariffs can vary from 10% on beef patties to 200% on prime cuts.

Responding to this growth in demand, an online platform delivering high-end beef to consumers, is about to be launched by a local importer, the first of its kind in this market. It will also supply top-end food service facilities.

In Saudi Arabia, the government has extended the shelf life of chilled vacuum-packed beef to 120 days and chilled vacuum-packed lamb to 90 days. Products remaining on sale for longer means reduced wastage and higher returns for retailers. This should greatly benefit Australian red meat exporters to the region and will open up more sea freight options.

Producers and exporters should contact their Middle Eastern importers or Austrade to explore potential opportunities for meat exports to Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East region. It is anticipated that other Gulf Cooperation Council (United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar) members will follow Saudi standards.  Source:  Austrade  |  Photo: iStock

On 17 December 2021 the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed. 

The Australian British Chamber of Commerce is hosting a webinar at 11 am AWST on Thursday 24 March 2022 to explore key elements businesses need to be aware of to be ready to take advantage of these new arrangements when they come into force later this year.

Speakers will include: Australian Chief Negotiator, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Elisabeth Bowes; BDO’s bilateral trade and investment expert, Bill Cole; and the Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, David McCredie OBE.  Source:  Australian British Chamber of Commerce  |  Image:  DFAT