Business Envoy - December 2023

A look at economies beyond Australia’s top export markets, sharing insights from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's diplomatic network.

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE • DECEMBER 2023

Australian businesses honoured at Export Awards Australia announces commencement

of trade negotiations with the United Arab Emirates

Deepening two-way trade and investment links with Southeast Asia

Historic First Nations international economic meeting

DFAT’s flagship trade and investment quarterly

Contents

Minister’s Foreword

Supporting Australia’s businesses diversify overseas

Minister’s Foreword

The Australian Export Awards bringing national recognition to business across states and sectors

Delivering a more inclusive approach to trade and investment

Australia announces trade agreement negotiations with the United Arab Emirates

As we end 2023, this edition of Business Envoy is a celebration of the success of Australian businesses in taking their world- class products and services to global markets, highlighting the Government’s role to support these efforts.

Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040

IPEF negotiations in San Francisco 14

assist them to diversify their overseas markets. Our free trade agreements (FTAs) continue to serve an important role in diversifying Australia’s trading relationships. Trade creates well-paid, secure jobs, and increases the living standards for Australians. On 13 December, the Government announced it will commence negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates, in the new year. A trade deal with the UAE will strengthen our relationship with one of our most important trading and investment partners in the Middle East.

I was delighted to announce Care Essentials as the winner of the 2023 Australian Export Awards last month. Care Essentials is a family- owned business that has grown to become a world leading exporter of medical equipment. The quality of finalists this year was exceptional, and they are to be commended for their significant contributions to Australia’s economy and the jobs they’ve helped to create. Collectively they employ over 22,500 people and generated $12 billion in export earnings. Trade is a key lever of the Australian economy, and the Albanese Labor Government is focussed on creating new export opportunities for Australian businesses to

APEC: an update on digital trade

to chair the inaugural Trade 2040 Taskforce in November bringing together leaders from across Australia in government, industry, unions, and the community to inform the Government’s trade policy agenda. This mix is purposeful – we’re putting people with diverse expertise and experience at the centre of our trade policy to make sure Australia is best placed to harness trade opportunities in the decades to come. We’ve got an exciting forward work agenda for 2024. The Government remains committed to engaging with business and the broader community as we pursue a trade agenda that delivers for all Australians. I hope readers have a safe and happy festive season.

announced will help support the digital economy, decarbonise our economies, and make our supply chains more resilient. Sustainability and inclusivity are embedded throughout the Framework. In San Francisco, we also saw significant progress in ensuring First Nations have a seat at the table internationally to discuss their trade and investment interests. I was pleased to be able to co- host an historic APEC Ministerial Dialogue with Indigenous Peoples. It followed the inaugural meeting of the Partnership Council for the Indigenous Peoples Economic and Trade Cooperation Arrangement, of which Australia is a founding member. In this issue we are continuing to promote an exciting skills exchange initiative under the Australia- United Kingdom FTA, bringing UK professionals for placements with Australian businesses. And from February next year, under the FTA, the UK will lift the age limit from 30 to 35 for Australians applying for a UK working holiday visa under the Youth Mobility scheme. Look out for updates next year on our other key trading partnerships. The Government is continuing to engage broadly with businesses, civil society, and other stakeholders on our trade policy. I was pleased

While we weren’t able to conclude negotiations on a free trade agreement with the European Union this year, the EU will continue to be an important trading and investment partner. In November, I travelled to Shanghai, China to attend the sixth China International Import Expo, one of the world’s largest trade shows. There was a record number of Australian exhibitors participating in this year’s Expo showcasing our world-class goods and services. While in Shanghai, I had the opportunity to engage with senior business leaders from a range of commercial sectors and promote Australian tourism and education services. Trade between Australia and China has delivered significant benefits to both our countries. My visit was another opportunity to advocate for Australian business, including for the full resumption of unimpeded Australian exports to China. On 16 November, just over a year after negotiations first commenced, I joined my counterparts in San Francisco to announce the substantial conclusion of key

Australia Awards Short Courses: demonstrating the cutting edge of energy transition

Catalysing energy decarbonisation in Laos

China International Import Expo signals new era of optimism for Australia-China trade relations

Baidam Solutions: training future First Nations cyber leaders

An historic week for First Nations economic cooperation

Australia’s journey towards Net Zero

WA promots high-grade vanadium metal project

On the cover:

Practical guidance to help your organisation build a Mutual Recognition Agreement

Senator The Hon Don Farrell Minister for Trade and Tourism

Care Essentials – 61st Australian Export Award and Regional Export winners, celebrating at the awards ceremony at Parliament House on 30 November. Read about them and all category winners and finalists on page 4

Export Finance Australia hosts the 28th Asian Exim Banks Forum

Australia-UK FTA provides pathway to address skills gaps

agreements under the Indo- Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). The Framework is a

modern arrangement that supports cooperation and greater economic integration in the Indo-Pacific region. The IPEF outcomes

Global Insights

Above: Senator the Hon Don Farrell engaging with Chinese trade and investment contacts during the Shanghai CIIE

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The Australian Export Awards: bringing national recognition to business across states and sectors

61st Australian Export Awards

National Finalists

“Promoting export consciousness” was the role cited for the Australian Export Awards program by Trade Minister and Deputy Prime Minister John McEwen, upon its launch in 1963. Applications were sought Australia- wide from all sections of industry and commerce, and involved the states and territories from the very beginning. The inaugural Australian Export Awards national ceremony was held in Canberra on 27 November that year, and the winners were presented with a pennant to fly over their premises and use in advertising campaigns. Sixty years on, the awards are still going strong. Since the first national ceremony, the Australian Export Awards have recognised over 2,000 businesses as national finalists including 755 businesses that have gone onto win a national award. Finalists have been assessed on aspects such as the strength of their international growth, and their marketing and financial strategies. Their stories – not just those of the winners, but those of the national finalists – have been a model and inspiration to other Australian exporters. The Australian Trade and Investment Commission, better known as Austrade, presents the awards in conjunction with the state and territory award program partners. As a national program, the Australian Export Awards celebrates the achievements of extraordinary Australian exporters,

Congratulations to the overall winner of the 61st Australian Exporter of the Year, Care Essentials. The prize was awarded by Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell at a gala function at Parliament House in Canberra on 30 November.

Based in regional Victoria, the company is a world leading niche exporter of medical devices, most notably locally made warming devices for patients undergoing surgery. Every state and territory is well represented among the 13 award categories. Just over half are small businesses, and more than a third are led by women, independently or jointly. Read on to learn about all 86

finalists. You can find further details at www.exportawards.gov.au.

The Australian Export Awards Program is made possible through the valued support of state and territory governments, Australia’s leading corporations, export facilitators and industry groups, and other Australian Government departments.

Advanced Technologies Joint WINNER

Agribusiness, food and beverages Agtrade (Qld) A livestock, genetics and food security group developing sustainable export markets for some of Australia’s great agricultural resources. Exporting to Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam among others. Almondco Australia (SA) Supporting the almond- growing community, processing almond products and exporting to 28 countries including China, India, South Africa, Vietnam, UAE and US Fremantle Octopus (WA) Sustainably wild-caught octopus exported to leading restaurants and retailers around the world. Pacific Sea Urchin Australia (Vic) Sea urchins are a pest, and exporting sea urchin roe to China, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe is doing the environment a service. Rum Jungle Meat Exports (NT) The only export-accredited buffalo processor in Australia, processing wild-caught, feral buffalo. Exporting Halal- accredited meat to Halal markets around the world.

Healthcare Logic (QLD) SystemView hospital

WINNER

analytics platform creates a common language between staff, executives and health departments to diagnose and solve challenges. Exporting to Ireland, UK, NZ, Canada and UAE. Pasture-io (Tas) Helps farmers optimise their pasture growth and livestock performance to enhance farm sustainability and profits. Exporting to Africa, Europe, NZ and the Americas.

stimulating recovery in the visitor economy. This, of course, helps create the conditions for market and export success for Australian businesses. An important aspect to trade diversification is ensuring that global opportunities are prepared for. Climate change and the green economy, digital transformation, and inclusive trade, along with geopolitical changes, are creating whole new markets with requirements for professionalism and new knowledge. Businesses who export need to be more and more across international standards and rules. The Australian Government will continue to help world-ready exporting businesses to thrive, with a first principle of consulting and listening to business. The Australian Export Awards categories will continue to shift and adjust to developments and innovation, rewarding the results of foresight, insight, and entrepreneurial spark among businesses of all sizes and types.

and the far‑reaching impact they have on the nation’s economy. The awards process has two stages: firstly with distinction at state award level; then those state finalists progress to national finalists. Each year, a national winner is crowned Australian Exporter of the Year. Category winners are also announced, with all national finalists showcased on the global stage thanks to the reach and influence of Austrade, its state counterparts, and its business and government sponsors. All finalists represent a diverse range of sectors and industries and make a significant contribution to our national economy, creating jobs and opportunities in our cities, regions, and rural areas. Austrade has supported the Export Awards throughout its iterations as an agency. It now has some 1,200 experts in its 67 offices, in Australia and in established and developing markets. Austrade’s work feeds into growing the Australian economy by accelerating the growth of Australian exporters, attracting foreign investment and

Sunrice (NSW) One of Australia’s iconic brands, Sunrice is committed to innovative practices in R&D, to maintain Australia’s global reputation as a leader in rice products. True South Seafood (Tas) A shellfish supplier targeting high-end consumers world- wide with abalone and sea urchin products exported to Europe, Malaysia, Singapore, UAE, UK, US and Vietnam. Creative industries Cizzy Bridal (WA) Affordable bridal wear found in 170 stores worldwide. EventsAir (Qld) An all-in-one cloud management platform to power events around the world. The solution of choice for professional conference organisers.

Audinate (NSW) Its flagship produce, Dante, is a flexible and scalable solution that allows AV Exporting to China, Hong Kong, Germany, the UK and the US. AVI (WA) AVI designs, develops and manufactures specialised communication systems and critical components for military, mining, security and space applications. Chemwatch (Vic) Chemwatch creates safer workplaces with its comprehensive software solutions for managing chemicals hazards. Gymaware (ACT) devices to connect to computer networks. Velocity Based Training (VBT) solutions including the laser- based device for tracking strength training activities.

Joint WINNER

Prophecy International (SA) A software success story, providing data integration, analytics and business process automation solutions. Customer base spans North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific.

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Global Indigenous Management (Vic)

Homebodii (Qld) Redefining loungewear and sleepwear and collaborating with global brands to captivate a consumer base of celebrities, stylists and influencers. Key export markets are the UAE, UK and US. Lash Therapy Australia Created during COVID-19 lockdown by three best friends, this eyelash growth business has grown to now exporting to 140 countries.

WINNER

Premier Metals (WA) Scrap metal recycling making a meaningful contribution to natural resources conservation. Exporting to India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE and Vietnam. International Education and Training Adelaide Consulting Group (SA) Delivering high-quality training and certification programs in IT service management, cyber security and project management. Exporting to the Asia-Pacific, India, UAE, UK and US. Alana Kaye College (NT) Delivers vocational education and training (VET) to a global student cohort. Its international student cohort hails from over 40 countries. Edith Cowan University (WA) An established leader in the delivery of quality teaching, its eight schools collectively deliver courses to more than 30,000 students from over 100 countries, such as Bhutan, China, India, Kenya and Sri Lanka. Melbourne Polytechnic (Vic) Targets students who are interested in quality Australian training, Commonwealth- accredited courses, and boutique offerings developed by the institute. Recently developed a new partnership with Vietnam. TAFE Queensland (Qld) Delivers training to more than 125,000 students in over 60 Queensland locations each year. This includes more than 7,000 international students.

WINNER

Gelflex (WA) Uses automated robotic engineering processes to manufacture contact lenses. Exporting to 35 countries, Indonesia and the Philippines. Pharmako Biotechnologies (NSW) Advanced delivery systems for nutrients and medicines, improving absorption at microscopic and sub- microscopic levels. Exporting to Canada, China, Europe, Asia and the US. including India, Israel, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia,

INCITIAS (Vic) Engineering and commercial services provider facilitating energy transition projects for a global client base. Exporting to Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, the Philippines and Singapore. KBA Global Education & Migration (NT) Provides education and migration consultation for international students, with support and guidance so that students can achieve their educational goals. The Philippines and Nepal are key markets.

First Nations content for fashion runways, arts and cultural events along with music and film projects. Exporting to Canada, Malaysia, NZ, the Philippines, Samoa and the US.

WINNER

Chronosoft (Qld) Incident management, risk mitigation and control room operations solutions across many sectors. Establishing a global reputation with plans to expand into markets beyond NZ, UK and US. Fleet Space Technologies (SA) “On a mission” to connect Earth, Moon and Mars. The company is revolutionising the mineral exploration, defence and space exploration sectors with technology and connectivity solutions. Key markets include Canada, Ghana, Pakistan and the US. Geonon (Tas) Working at the intersection of climate resilience and technology, with artificial intelligence changing the landscape of climate risk assessment. Exporting to key market Thailand and with plans to set up in an innovation hub in Europe. Infinity Avionics (ACT) Space-based sending and processing solutions for spacecraft, including space asset monitoring, space robotics, earth observation, and rover applications. Broadening its customer base beyond Europe, Japan, Lithuania, Taiwan and the US. Lánluas Consulting Intelligent business planning, accounting automation and cloud migration solutions

UOW Global Enterprises (NSW) University of Wollongong Global Enterprises offers 200 programs to more than 14,000 students each year. Key export markets include China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. International Health Avance Clinical CRO (SA) A contract research organisation for biotechs with a proven track record in Australia, New Zealand and North America. Specialises in top-tier clinical trials that yield globally accepted data. Better Breathing Sport (NSW) Its oscillating positive expiratory pressure device mimics 15 to 35 mini coughs through resistance and vibration, helping optimise lung function. The devices are sold in more 30 countries. Linear Clinical Research (WA) Delivers clinical trials, bridging the gap between the laboratory bench pharmaceutical companies in China, Denmark, France, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, UK and US. and the bedside. Clients are biotechnology and

SDI Limited (Vic) A world leader in specialist dental materials including tooth fillings and tooth whitening products. Export markets include Brazil, Germany, Korea, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Spain, UK, Canada and the US. Qlicksmart (Qld) Flagship device is the world’s first single-handed scalpel blade remover. These devices ensure users stay safe and comply with infection control and workplace regulations. Supplied through a network of 120 distribution partners in over 50 countries. Manufacturing and Advanced Materials AW Bell (Vic) Leading supplier of casting solutions, specialising in investment casting and sand casting. Exporting to Canada, Germany, India, UK and US. Currawong Engineering (Tas) Makes and exports engine powertrain systems and electronics for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). Key markets include the US, Estonia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Poland, Taiwan, Turkey, and Vietnam. Frosty Boy Global (Qld) Powder-based flavour solutions spanning desserts, beverages, bakery goods, savoury foods, and nutrition products. Exporting to 65 countries including India, Korea, Malaysia, the Middle East, the Philippines, the US and Vietnam.

WINNER

Humanitix (NSW) A ticket booking platform donating its booking fee profits to children’s educational charities, and focused on event accessibility. Exporting to Canada, Fiji, NZ, Singapore, UK and US. Rising Sun Pictures (SA) Computer-generated visual effects for feature films and streaming platforms. Partnering with the University of South Australia on accredited university courses. Terrapin (Tas) Creates engaging and innovative works for family audiences, exporting performance and installations to theatres and festivals in China, Japan, UK and US. Ecommerce Apxium (SA) accounting firms around the world. Loan administration and risk is also automated. Main clients are large firms in North America and the UK. Homart Pharmaceuticals (NSW) Manufactures and markets products and pet supplements to markets largely in Asia and the Middle East. The COVID-19 pandemic meant a strategic focus shift to online. supplements, skincare products, dairy powder An automated financial technology toolkit for

WINNER

Scoot Boots (Tas) Hoof boots for horses, taking equine shoeing into the 21st century. Horses around the world recovering from hoof pathologies or transitioning from iron shoes use them. womenswear using eco- conscious materials and packaging. Stocked by luxury retailers in Europe, South America, UAE, UK and US. Emerging Exporters AusNorth Trading (NT) A fresh food exporter with a strong focus on NT fruit, vegetables and seafood, capitalising on recent cold storage facilities developed at Darwin Airport. Booby Tape International (Vic) Zhivago (WA) Cruelty-free, luxury The inventor of Booby Tape, designed to lift breasts and hold them in place without a bra. Exporting to more than 60 countries including Canada, Costa Rica, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, South Africa.

REDARC Electronics (SA) An electronics company powering mobility, discovery and exploration through mobile, off-grid energy and safety management solutions. Shipping products to more than 50 countries, with staff located in five overseas locations. integrated solutions. Clients in the aerospace, defence, automotive and medical sectors. Exporting to Asia, Europe and the US. Professional Services Global Study Partners (NSW) A two-sided international student recruitment platform offering students access to more than 51,000 courses at over 1,000 institutions globally. Exporting to India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Colombia, Indonesia, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan. SPEE3D (NT) Metal 3D printers and

Medical Rescue (Qld) The busiest international air ambulance service in Australia, providing international aeromedical evacuation services for the Indo-Pacific region. Has expanded operations into the Middle East. information security testing facility based in Canberra. Vendors from across the globe seek Teron Labs’ expertise in testing and evaluation of their information security products. The Little Bar Cart (WA) Uniquely designed mobile bar carts service any kind of event, including weddings, corporate and private events. Targeting luxury hotel brands in North America, Asia, Europe and the UAE. Teron Labs (ACT) A formally accredited

helping government, education, community services and corporate organisations.

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61th Australian Export Awards National Finalists

Regional Exporter Asia Pacific Aircraft Storage (NT) Provides dedicated aircraft storage, maintenance and part-out services to the region and beyond, in optimum (dry air) conditions. Markets include Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore and the US

Sustainability A.H. Beard (NSW) Quality mattresses and

SR Portables (Vic) A global leader in energy

Tasmanian Quality Meats (Tas) Exports from the heart of Tasmanian lamb country, producing lamb, mutton, offal, skins and veal for a global market. Exporting to the US, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Mexico, Canada and Hong Kong. Viterra (SA) One of the largest buyers and exporters of Australian wheat, barley, canola, pulses, sorghum and cotton. Maintains a bulk vessel chartering fleet of 200. Exporting to more than 50 global destinations. Resources and Energy Ardexa (ACT) Secure software services for the Internet of Things (IoT), working with leading companies in renewable energy, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), water management and transport. Exporting to Austria, France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, the UK and the US. DSI Underground (NSW) One of Australia’s largest manufacturers of specialist strata reinforcement and support products. Its products help keep the soft and hard rock underground mining and tunnelling sectors safer. Exporting to Botswana, Ghana, Indonesia, NZ, US. Duratray International (Vic) World leader in high-efficiency, customised dump bodies for the mining industry’s trucks and haulage equipment. There are more than 2,000 Duratray dump bodies operating globally. Exporting to 35 countries including China, Mexico, Canada, US, UK, PNG and South Africa. Motium (WA) Expert in the design and manufacture of rugged technologies for business requiring robust and reliable products that will work in harsh environments. Exporting to four continents.

WINNER

Genics (Qld) Highly sensitive and effective early pathogen detection and disease prevention solutions countries including Ecuador, Europe, India, Indonesia and Vietnam. Ikuntji Artists (NT) An art centre established by women, with eight artists now represented in international galleries, and an online business selling to the world. Exporting to Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Switzerland, UAE, the UK and the US. for the prawn (shrimp) industry. Clientele in 43 Molecule2Market (Vic) Advancing Australia’s contribution to the clinical research and development of innovative medical treatments. Exporting across the US and Asia-Pacific region as well as Europe.

storage products. Its lithium solar generators range from hand-held to grid-connected products. Users can generate energy anywhere, anytime. Exporting to Bangladesh, Canada, France, India, Kenya, Lebanon, North America, the Pacific Islands, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE and the UK. Tassal Operations (Tas) A vertically integrated salmon, seaweed and prawn farmer in Australia, committed to meeting the growing market and customer demand for healthy, sustainable and nutritious food. Exporting to Bangladesh, Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and the US.

sleep products, made with a commitment to sustainability. The company will soon export a sustainable mattress solution to the world’s two largest bedding markets, China and the US. Air Water Global (SA) Applying cutting-edge quantum biotechnologies to clean and purify the atmosphere, surfaces and water, eliminating fungi, mould, bacteria, viruses and gases without using chemicals. Exporting to the EU, UK and US. FLINTpro (ACT) A software platform that streamlines greenhouse gas accounting for the land sector, integrating the most reliable data from remote sensing, models and ground sources. Export markets include Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, the Philippines and the US.

Phibion (Qld) Making tailing dam storage facilities safer, smaller and more sustainable, and helps communities reclaim mined land. Export markets include Bolivia, Brazil, China and Jamaica. Wilco Technologies (SA) Ground support for the mining industry, with solutions eliminating risks for miners. A long-term exporter to Indonesia, the company has established a strong presence in Canada and is establishing in South Africa and Botswana. Small Business Aceit Sportswear (NSW) Custom apparel, sportswear merchandise, including design- it-yourself software for clients. Well established supplier to UK bowls clubs, along with its exports to Europe. BixeLab (ACT) Helps companies comply with domestic and international standards for their identity and biometric solutions. Offers biometric testing, compliance assessment and certification. Exporting to the UK, Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, the US and NZ. Clean and Pure (WA) Natural beauty and skincare products made from low- irritant, non-toxic, Australian- sourced ingredients. Exporting to China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the US.

WINNER

Care Essentials (Vic) Flagship product is the Cocoon Warming System,

used during surgery to prevent and treat

hypothermia and maintain normal body temperature. Exporting to more than 70 countries. CBH Group A grain growers’ cooperative based in Western Australia (WA). It is the largest grain exporter in Australia, controlled by around 3,500 WA grain-growing businesses. Exporting to China, Mexico, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. Leatherwood Bespoke Rosin (NSW) Australia’s only manufacturer of rosin for orchestral stringed instruments. Rosin is a form of resin that helps create friction between the bow hair and strings. Exporting to Austria, China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, the UK and the US. Mort and Co (Qld) The largest Australian-owned lot feeder in the country. It turns over more than 230,000 cattle a year and exports to China, Korea, Taiwan, UAE and the US.

WINNER

MyVenue (SA) Fast, reliable and rapidly scalable point-of-sale (POS) solutions for sports, entertainment and hospitality venues. Used by more than 70 stadiums, arenas, convention centres, zoos, hotels and cafes across the globe. Smitten Merino (Tas) Designs and manufactures clothing and sleepwear from merino wool sourced in Tasmania. Exporting to Canada, UK, US and countries across Northern Europe.

Paradigm Foods (Qld) Bespoke, quality and

sustainable beef and lamb brands exporting to more than 26 markets, including China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE and the US. Smartstream Technology (WA) Uses advanced technologies to produce a highly developed range of wastewater and stormwater products. Exporting to Fiji, Indonesia, New Zealand and North America.

Above: David Koch, Host of the Australian Export Awards ceremony. Images by Sean Davey

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Delivering a more inclusive approach to trade and investment

Australia will commence negotiations on a trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates

The Government has announced its decision to commence negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) – a bilateral free trade agreement – with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the new year.

The UAE is Australia’s largest trade and investment partner in the Middle East and a key gateway to the region and beyond, with two-way goods and services trade valued at $9.26 billion in 2022. An ambitious Australia-UAE CEPA will reduce or remove tariffs and other barriers that disadvantage our traders. It will promote services trade, including for our education providers and professional services, and opportunities for investment. It will also lay the groundwork for a closer economic partnership that is needed to address shared challenges such as the transition to more sustainable energy.

We welcome written submissions from all interested stakeholders at the DFAT website here: dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/ trade-agreements/ftas-under- consideration/australia-uae- comprehensive-economic- partnership-agreement-cepa. These are essential for ensuring the Government is informed on interests across business and the broader community and we get the best agreement for Australia.

Further information on the announcement is available at: trademinister.gov.au/minister/ don-farrell/media-release/ australia-united-arab-emirates- trade-agreement

Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, chaired the inaugural Trade 2040 Taskforce meeting in Adelaide on 2 November 2023.

The Taskforce brings together government, industry, unions, and community representatives to serve as a key consultation body to progress the government’s trade policy agenda. The inaugural Taskforce meeting focussed on trade diversification, the transition to net zero, Australia’s ambitions to become a renewable energy superpower, supply chain resilience and economic security. By bringing together experts from across sectors, the Australian Government aims to work collectively to ensure Australia is best placed to harness trade opportunities globally and to ensure that the benefits of trade are shared by all Australians. The Taskforce builds on and strengthens the existing consultative processes on Australia’s trade policy, strategies, and free trade agreements. It follows Minister Farrell’s second meeting of the Ministerial Council on Trade and Investment (MCTI) with his state and territory

counterparts in Sydney on 20 October 2023. Established as part of National Cabinet, MCTI provides an opportunity for more coordinated engagement across jurisdictions on Australia’s international trade and investment agenda. Commonwealth, State and Territory Ministers agreed to national principles underpinning trade promotion and investment attraction and a calendar of coordinated events. Jurisdictions also agreed to work with the First Nations business sector to develop a Statement of Intent about how government will work together to improve trade and investment outcomes for First Nations Australians. Further information on the Ministerial Council on Trade and Investment is available here: trademinister.gov.au/minister/ don-farrell/media-release/ communique-second-meeting- ministerial-council-trade-and- investment

Further information on the Trade 2040 Taskforce: dfat.gov.au/trade/trade-and- investment/trade-2040-taskforce Following a referral from Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth is inquiring into the Australian Government’s approach to negotiating trade and investment agreements. Further information on the inquiry is available at aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_ Above: Associate Secretary, DFAT, Tim Yeend and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell with Trade 2040 Taskforce members (L to R on table: Steven Murphy, Craig Clifford, Craig Emerson, Flavia Tata Nardini, Kate Marks, Ambassador Justin Mohamed, Cathryn Tilmouth, Swati Dave and Paul Fraser). [Taskforce members not in picture: Michelle Deshong, Michele O’Neil, Meg O’Neill and Fiona Simson]. Business/Committees/Joint/ Joint_Standing_Committee_on_ Trade_and_Investment_Growth/ Approachtotrade

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Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 Nicholas Moore AO

Since the September launch of his report Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 , Special Envoy for Southeast Asia Nicholas Moore AO has continued advocacy to deepen two-way trade and investment links with Southeast Asia.

In 2022, Australia’s investment stocks in Southeast Asia represented only 3.4 per cent of Australia’s total investment overseas. In the past decade, Australia’s foreign direct investment in the region has stagnated, while some other countries have substantially increased their investment. The report examines 10 priority sectors that offer the most potential for growth: agriculture and food, resources, green energy transition, infrastructure, education and skills, visitor economy, healthcare, digital economy, professional and financial services, and creative industries. In total, the report presents 75 cross-cutting and sector-specific recommendations for government consideration. These will take time to assess and implement. Mr Moore undertook extensive consultations to inform his report. He met with more than 750 individuals across Southeast Asia and Australia; received around 200 written submissions through a public consultation process; and visited all ASEAN countries (except Myanmar).

This month he will visit Malaysia and Thailand to meet with key government and business leaders to discuss our shared growth prospects and opportunities ahead. At the report’s launch, Prime Minister Albanese described the report as a strategy for the most significant upgrade of Australia’s economic engagement with ASEAN for a generation. Favourable demographics, industrialisation, urbanisation and technological advances will transform Southeast Asia into an economic powerhouse in the coming decades. Australia is well- placed with the capabilities, goods, services and capital that can drive mutually beneficial and long-term growth. A key finding in the report was that there is more Australia can be doing on trade and investment with Southeast Asia. While Australia’s trade with the region has grown in nominal terms over the past 20 years, Southeast Asia’s share of Australia’s total trade has remained constant at around 14 per cent – this is despite the economic growth in the region over this period.

As an initial response to the recommendations, Prime Minister Albanese announced three initiatives to help Australia translate Southeast Asia’s potential into enduring growth. These go the heart of the report, and represent a first step to advance Australia’s ambition to significantly expand commercial links with the region.

Mr Moore identified four categories of required actions he considered necessary to realise the commercial potential between Australia and Southeast Asia: • raise awareness – to address a lack of knowledge of markets, sectors, and declining regional literacy in Australia • remove blockages – to address tariff and non-tariff barriers, including through mutual recognition of qualifications and standards harmonisation, managing risks and enhancing mobility • build capability – to ensure Australia and the region have the skills and capability to pursue opportunities and address economic challenges • deepen investment – to promote economic growth and prosperity. The report seeks to ensure Australia and Southeast Asia are jointly positioned to maximise the potential of our economic ties, from now until 2040, and beyond. The report is available at dfat.gov. au/southeastasiaeconomicstrategy

Investment deals teams Delivered jointly by the Department

Southeast Asia Business Exchange Program Led by Austrade to support increased two-way trade between Australia and Southeast Asia Includes targeted business missions to Southeast Asia in priority sectors, a Southeast Asia trade and investment promotion campaign in Australia and a survey of diaspora business interests in Australia to support new entrants into Southeast Asian markets

Placements and internships pilot program for young professionals Will help build enduring links between Australian and Southeast Asian businesses

of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Austrade and Export Finance Australia, will help increase Australian investment in Southeast Asia

In 2024, ASEAN and Australia will celebrate 50 years of partnership. To commemorate this milestone, a Special Commemorative Summit will be held in Melbourne in March 2024.

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IPEF negotiations in San Francisco: forward steps

APEC: an update on digital trade

IPEF

During the Apec Economic Leaders’

In San Francisco in November, Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) partners reached the substantial conclusion of negotiations on a set of ‘first-of-their kind’ IPEF agreements. IPEF will support Australia’s trade diversification agenda and drive greater employment and inclusive economic growth for all Australians by keeping our supply chains agile, supporting the region’s net-zero transition, and combating corruption and tax evasion.

Week in San Francisco in November 2023, the Committee on Trade and Investment and the Digital Economy Steering Group issued a statement encouraging more WTO members to participate in the Joint Statement Initiative (JSI) on e-commerce. The JSI negotiations are an effort to address gaps in global trade rules.

The effects of COVID-19 highlighted and expanded the importance of the digital economy, of accelerating the digital transformation, of bridging digital divides, and heightened the need for global rules governing digital trade. A recent Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) report on the economic impact of adopting digital trade rules found that intra-regional digital trade contributed USD 2.1 trillion to economies in the APEC region, equivalent to approximately 4.1 percent of regional GDP, and supported more than 60 million jobs in 2018. For more than 30 years, APEC has had a proud tradition of supporting the work of the World Trade Organization (WTO). APEC expressed its support

for the negotiations underway among 90 WTO members on the Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce, and encouraged participants to accelerate discussions towards an outcome for the digital economy that is balanced, inclusive and meaningful. Australia co-convenes the JSI, with Japan and Singapore, and seeks a timely, ambitious outcome – one that puts in place modern digital trade rules for the benefit of workers, consumers and businesses. For information on the latest APEC activities see apec2023sf.org pm.gov.au/media/apec-economic- leaders-meeting

The IPEF Clean Economy Agreement will be the first comprehensive regional agreement on the net zero transition. It will cover a “just transition” on energy, transport, demand-side measures, sustainable finance, technologies, sustainable land, water and oceans management. The IPEF Clean Economy Agreement is the first of its kind to recognise the relationship of Indigenous Peoples to the clean economy, promoting full, effective and meaningful participation. The IPEF Fair Economy Agreement will be one of the most advanced and comprehensive anti-corruption agreements since the UN Convention Against Corruption was agreed 20 years ago. It will enhance the rule of law and fight corruption and tax evasion, levelling the playing and opening up new investment opportunities for Australian businesses.

A previously agreed world-first IPEF Supply Chain Trade and Tourism Agreement, signed by Minister Farrell and IPEF counterparts in San Francisco, will equip Australia and the region to prepare for and respond to future supply chain shocks, and to recover more quickly through flexible planning and forecasting. The IPEF Supply Chain Agreement will accelerate the diversification and production

Work is ongoing for IPEF’s progressive Trade Agreement, which will elevate and align standards in new and emerging areas, driving trade and investment flows for Australian businesses. A first-of-its kind Inclusivity Chapter will bring Australia’s women, persons with disabilities and Indigenous Peoples into the regional economy. Australian producers and exporters will benefit from more streamlined trading arrangements, reducing the impact of economically damaging non-tariff barriers. For more information: trademinister.gov.au/minister/ don-farrell/media-release/new- regional-agreements-boost-trade- indo-pacific

of critical goods, capitalising on Australia’s unique export capabilities.

An IPEF Critical Minerals Dialogue was agreed and will strengthen collaboration in critical minerals supply chains. For Australia, this means using our critical minerals to assist the region in transitioning to clean energy, supporting resilient and sustainable supply chains, and building Australia’s capacity and standing as a renewable energy superpower.

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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

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Australia Awards Short Courses: Demonstrating the cutting edge of energy transition

Catalysing energy decarbonisation in Laos

Julian Chin Chief Coordinating Officer Mekong Eight Group Ltd.

Australia’s universities are showcasing Australian climate change expertise through Australia Awards Short Courses that aim to assist with transitioning the electricity grid to renewable energy. There is strong desire from international students to learn from Australia’s experience. Students undertaking these courses can see first-hand the transition taking place in Australia and meet the companies and technology innovators who are leading this work. Australian universities take the opportunity to highlight innovative technologies being developed by Australian firms or deployed in Australia by foreign investors. These include firms like NOJA Power, which exports equipment to 105 countries, and Power Ledger which uses blockchain technology to track, trade and trace every kilowatt hour of energy. Foreign Investors like Neoen, the developer of the original “Big Battery”, the Hornsdale Power Reserve in South Australia, say that Australia is at the cutting edge of the energy transition. What they learn here is deployed globally. Since mid-2021, more than 260 students from Africa, Asia, South America and the Pacific have studied an Australia Awards Climate Change Short Course in Grid Integration of Renewable Energy at the Australian National University. These short courses have now expanded to cover a wide range of climate change topics from adaptation and resilience through to disaster risk reduction and sustainable mining. The number of institutions delivering the courses has grown too, and now includes Curtin University, Griffith University and the University of Queensland.

Julian Chin is principal coordinator of the Mekong Eight Group and participant in the ANU short course. Mekong Eight has been supporting development partners in Laos since 2013, and actively advises the Lao Government on matters pertaining to the energy transition. The group acts as the conduit for funnelling global best practices in engineering, design and project management into the Lao developmental sector.

Australian academia and government institutions have long been collaborating through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to address the climate change needs in ASEAN. Home to eight per cent of the world’s population (680 million), the ASEAN bloc is on course for a surge in energy demand. To this end, DFAT has been actively driving a number of peer2peer forums aimed at catalysing energy decarbonisation - through enabling greater renewables adoption into the power systems of the region. In October 2022, DFAT arranged for a series of short courses on climate change held in Vientiane , Laos. Led by the Australian National University (ANU), with support from energy related government institutes, the courses were designed to support ASEAN governments and regulators bolster the human capital required to address the long-term evolution of the regional energy grid.

Laos is highly strategic to the evolution of energy in ASEAN. Positioning itself as the “Battery of Asia” on account of its unparalleled hydropower resources, the landlocked nation successfully executed the first transboundary energy trade in ASEAN (2018-2021), despatching 300 megawatts of renewable energy into Singapore via cross-border interconnections through Thailand and Malaysia. However, as Laos’ energy mix remains heavily weighted on hydropower, the Government of the day is actively pursuing solar and wind resources to be developed in situ. After decades of regulatory reform, the energy landscape in Laos and greater Indochina is poised for an explosion of development in renewable energy generators, transmission and distribution infrastructure. There is substantial opportunity for deployment of ancillary services required of highly networked energy system. Australia and the innovations from its private sector are superbly positioned to work with ASEAN on this new paradigm of energy interconnectivity.

DFAT’s Vientiane post supporting energy initiatives The Australia Awards short course attended by Julian Chin in Laos was funded through the Partnership for Infrastructure (P4I) program, delivered by ANU. This activity is part of Australian Government support to Laos to build the capacity of government officials and the private sector to accelerate the energy transition. The Australian Embassy, in collaboration with ANU’s P4I team, has led the new energy cooperation, Laos-Australia Sustainable Energy Partnership (LASEP), to support the Lao Government’s energy priorities, including stability, reliability and profitability, and Laos’ economic development.

Examples of Australian cutting-edge innovation: The Australian Capital Territory has achieved 100 per cent renewable electricity. South Australia is the first jurisdiction in the world to average 70 per cent wind and solar PV, while achieving 100 per cent wind and 100 per cent solar at different times. Tasmania is 100 per cent self-sufficient in renewable electricity and was the first Australian jurisdiction to achieve net zero emissions. The Northern Territory will host one of the world’s biggest solar farms with the proposed 20-gigawatt solar farm near Tennant Creek and an 800 kilometre overhead transmission line to Darwin.

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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

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Baidam Solutions: training future First Nations cyber leaders

China International Import Expo signals new era of optimism for Australia-China trade relations

Baidam Solutions Pty Ltd has taken the Australian cyber security industry by storm since it was established in 2018. The Brisbane- based, Indigenous owned ICT security consultancy provides expertise spanning hardware installations, software licensing and security services. Baidam has just been recognised as one of Australia’s 50 fastest growing technology companies, listed in Deloitte’s Tech Fast 50 list for 2023. Since start-up, Baidam has expanded its workforce and nationwide reach into New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia. It now services federal and state governments, and private enterprises including Qantas, ANZ Bank, Origin Energy, NRMA, AGL, Rio Tinto, BHP, Flight Centre and Wesfarmers. This year, the multi-award-winning company opened a new First Nations Security Operations Centre (SOC) in Brisbane, the first of its kind anywhere in the world. The SOC provides a space for First Nations people to lead and solve Australia’s cyber security issues, while training and providing pathways for Australia’s future First Nations cyber leaders. It’s called the ‘Gundan’ meaning ‘shield’, a term gifted by the Traditional Custodians of Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera Peoples.

Trade between Australia and China has delivered significant benefits for both countries. China is Australia’s largest trading partner, with two-way goods and services trade at $299 billion in 2022 and accounting for approximately 25 per cent of Australia’s total goods and services exports to the world. Sustained bilateral engagement has gradually stabilised our trade relationship and has led to several positive trade developments this year. With the relationship on a more positive trajectory, we have seen renewed optimism for Australian exporters, as evidenced by record attendance at this year’s China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai from 5-10 November.

Those on the ground described a new era of optimism for Australian exporters looking to re-enter the market, or explore opportunities in China for the first time. Australia has established an outstanding reputation for its high-quality agricultural produce including meat, seafood, dairy, and a growing range of premium packaged foods and beverages to meet the needs of sophisticated Chinese consumers. A record 244 Australian companies exhibited at CIIE this year. The event was live-streamed to half a million Chinese consumers, with business outcomes as a direct result of the Expo likely to contribute to further growth in trade over the coming year.

CIIE provided a perfect opportunity to strengthen the Australia-China trading relationship, cemented by the first visit of an Australian Prime Minister to China in seven years. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was joined by Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell, with the visit receiving widespread positive media coverage both in China and in Australia. China and Australia have highly complementary economies, that benefit from strong trade and investment ties. During the visit, Prime Minister Albanese and his counterpart President Xi Jinping welcomed the continuing stabilisation of our bilateral relationship. The China International Import Expo is one of the world’s largest trade shows, and one of the most important platforms for Australian businesses to showcase their goods and services.

Baidam is now looking to expand operations internationally and has started exploring offshore markets, with early opportunities for engagement emerging in the Pacific. This has seen Baidam participating in international forums such as the Indigenous Business Sector Group at the Australia- New Zealand Leadership Forum in Wellington, New Zealand in July, and at the World Indigenous Business Forum in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea in October.

The company has established pathways for accreditation and employment opportunities within its usual business activities, as well as providing funding support and scholarships for First Nations students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). There is a shortfall of cyber skills in Australia, and Baidam’s work seeks to address this while simultaneously supporting opportunities for First Nations employment. It’s a win-win model. For further information on Baidam Solutions and the services provided see baidam.com.au.

Baidam is also establishing business partnerships with

organisations such as Purple Team Australia, to support the workforce growth that will be needed for expansion. The Baidam Initiative Baidam provides a strong social return on investment through the Baidam Initiative. Under the initiative, the consultancy dedicates 52 per cent of profits back to First Nations community outcomes, with a focus on building pathways to high-value IT jobs for First Nations People.

Opening the Gundan, the First Nations Security Operations Centre, with Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security the Hon Clare O’Neil MP (centre) and Baidam Solutions co-founders, Jack Reis (left) and Pip Jenkinson (right).

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