Australian Chamber National Trade Survey 2018

The Australian Chamber’s Fourth National Trade Survey, conducted in partnership with the University of South Australia’s Australian Centre for Asian Business, aims to gauge the attitudes and challenges faced by Australian businesses in the international market.

It is supported by the qualitative insights from over 200 Australian businesses over the years 2013-2018.

Australia’s role as a trade and investment partner to some of the world’s largest economies has allowed us to create jobs, wealth and opportunities for many Australian businesses.

In an era of unparalleled globalisation and technological advancement, other developed nations have begun adapting their policy settings to better place business to compete in international markets. If Australia does not do the same, we will get left behind. It is important that we put in place the right policies to help Australian businesses create and sustain jobs, and provide competitively priced goods and services.

The Fourth National Trade Survey identifies the opportunities and key barriers Australian businesses are facing, including understanding and utilisation of free trade agreements, high domestic costs and red tape, engagement in emerging markets, access to trade finance and utilisation and support of trade initiatives.

In highlighting these key issues, we hope this report sparks a national discussion on the domestic reforms needed to ensure Australian businesses remain internationally competitive and acts as an impetus for change.

Click here to download the Full Trade Survey