The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), and Asialink Business, Australia’s National Centre for Asia Capability have entered into a strategic partnership that will empower Australian businesses, especially SMEs, to enter and succeed in Asian markets.
With the partnership, Austrade and Asialink Business, which is hosted by the University of Melbourne, will leverage their combined expertise and networks to deliver comprehensive support to Australian businesses, with a strong emphasis on building capability and awareness of markets in Southeast Asia and South Asia.
Austrade and Asialink Business will jointly engage in a range of initiatives under this partnership, including:
- Awareness and Knowledge Building: Austrade and Asialink Business will hold joint campaigns, events, as well as publish the Asialink Business Doing Business Guides—accessible via Austrade’s Go Global Toolkit—to equip Australian businesses with essential insights for success in Asia.
- Capability Uplift: Asialink Business’s targeted learning programs will provide upskilling to businesses, will build a pipeline of Asia-ready exporters, accessible via Austrade’s trade mission programs and promoted widely through Austrade’s digital channels for maximum reach and impact.
- Ecosystem Collaboration: Austrade and Asialink Business will activate a robust partner network, including state trade agencies, industry bodies, business councils, and diaspora communities to foster greater capacity within Australia’s trade ecosystem.
Austrade acting CEO Daniel Boyer stated, “We are focussed on helping Australian businesses build their knowledge and capability in key sectors across Asia, including in the digital and green economies, agrifood, consumer goods, and education. This partnership will help more businesses, faster, to understand the value and enormous opportunity of Asia, particularly in Southeast and South Asia, as Australia strengthens its economic ties with the region.”
“The MOU reflects a shared vision for Australia’s economic future, fostering an Asia-capable business community that contributes to national prosperity by building lasting ties with our closest neighbours,” Boyer added.
Asialink Business CEO Leigh Howard said, “Asialink Business is delighted to partner with Austrade to support Australian businesses’ growth ambitions in Asia. This partnership is an exciting opportunity for Asialink Business to elevate our impact by aligning with Austrade’s scale and reach.”
“By combining the strengths of two trusted organisations, we’re not just providing tools and resources, but creating a connected pathway that builds confidence, capability, and success for Australian businesses in Asia. Together, our practical and accessible insights and programs will empower Australian businesses to navigate the complexities of Asia, unlocking the region’s immense potential and supporting growth ambitions for businesses across every stage of their export journey,” Howard added.
