The West surges ahead in exports - Western Australia - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

Business Asia, Nov, 2000 by Nadia Cameron

WESTERN AUSTRALIA'S export industry just keeps getting bigger. The State now accounts for 26.1 per cent of Australia's exports, and in 1999/2000, passed the $25 billion mark for the first time.

Western Australia's main export assistance body, the Government-run Department of Commerce and Trade (DCT), has been a dominant force behind WA's continued success. DOT spokesman David Brewtnall said that with Asian markets now gaining firmer footing after the economic slowdown, the department is renewing efforts to launch new development projects. $20 million has already been devoted to resource development projects over the next five years.

There are a variety of assistance schemes available for both city and regional businesses through DOT, including the Exporting Planning Scheme, Business Visit Scheme, the Export Planning Service and Industry Incentive Scheme. Western Australia's commitment to research and development is also strong, with 27 Centres of Excellence now providing support for industries ranging from organic waste management to biomedical research.

WA's Export Market Support Scheme continues to reap the State impressive returns, with funding in 1999/2000 accounting for direct sales of $12.6 million and sales pending $51 million. Over 365 private sector companies have participated in this scheme so far. Companies earning less than $20 million are eligible to apply.

The Trade Extension Strategy, developed in 1998 to not only maintain strong ties with Asia but also to explore new markets outside of Asia, is committed to financially assisting, promoting and providing market intelligence for exporters.

DCT also holds established sister state agreements in Hyogo, Japan, East Java, Indonesia and Zhejiang, China. Financial assistance for exporters in each of these schemes ranges from $10,000 to $20,000.

The launch in January this year of the on-line "one-stop shop" Business and Investment Gateway Service is another source of information for businesses looking to export.

CONTACT

Department of Commerce and Trade
168-170 St Georges Terrace, Perth,
WA, 6000, PO Box 7234 Cloisters
Square Perth, WA, 6850
Phone: (08) 9327 5666
Website: www.commerce.wa.gov.au
International Trade Centre
Phone: (08) 9365 7636
Website: www.cciwa.com.au
Online Business and Investment
Gateway Service
Website: www.business.wa.gov.au