Australian Trade Commission

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The Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) is an Australian government agency that aims to assist Australian businesses in entering overseas export markets, and in doing so boost the national economy. It is a statutory authority under the portfolio of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It is based in Sydney, though it has a network of 18 offices in capital centres and 54 regional centres around Australia including 8 export hubs, as well as a large network of offices overseas; 105 locations in 58 countries in total.

The agency provides a number of services to would-be exporters, such as advice on prospective markets and opportunities, on-the-ground support in target countries, trade exhibitions, and assistance in finding potential investors. They also provide community education services, particularly in the area of teacher training, about international trade and related topics.

General information is provided at no charge to their clients and is available either through their website or by speaking with an export advisor. Specific tailored advice is provided to thousands of Austalian companies each year based on a quote in advance. Fees are based on an hourly rate and their service levels are guaranteed.

The agency provides a monthly newsletter, Export Update to keep businesses informed of recent developments concerning export markets. They also provide a detailed website giving advice to potential exporters, including suggestions on how to avoid certain trade obstacles, fulfill bureaucratic obligations, and advice on which products can and can not be exported and where to, as well as contact details for other organisations that may provide assistance.

The agency also provides financial assistance to Australian exporters through the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme, which encourages companies to seek out and develop overseas markets. Under the scheme, eligible Australian businesses are reimbursed for part of the export marketing costs they incur.