Top 10 Tips for New Exporters by the Australian Institute of Export

1. Do your research! Don’t build an export strategy into your business plan before you
   
   know which markets would be suitable markets for the product or service you want to target.
2. Formulate a basic export strategy which is guided by the knowledge you have gained through research.
3. Be informed - speak to people who have been there and done that. This involves plugging in to export groups, either online or through various networking events and seminars held by government and industry.  By undertaking your research first and then developing a basic export strategy, you will have a better idea of where your knowledge gaps are and what you need to ask people. 
4. Consider the appropriate training. Think about who in your company should be trained on export procedures, or whether you may need to recruit someone with experience in the area. There is no such thing as too much knowledge.
5. Visit your market/s of interest and see first-hand what is happening. If you’re ready, perhaps pre-arrange some business meetings to gauge interest and gain a better understanding of the market.
6. Don’t forget risk management! Re-visit your export strategy and ensure that you have the appropriate risk management tools in place (IP protection, currency risk hedging etc..)
   
   
7. Prepare your product/service for export. Find out exactly what the requirements are for exporting your good/service. Things like packaging and marketing material may need to be created specifically for your export market. This could involve translation of product and promotional material into the relevant language, and making adjustment as to adhere to customs regulations in that market.
8. Do your due diligence. When engaging with potential buyers or distributors, at the very least do a basic search to see if they are legitimate and trustworthy.  
9. Use government and industry association’s services, especially when it comes to being connected with potential buyers/agents/distributors or necessary service providers in your target market. Remember that you can claim legitimate marketing expenses through the EMDG scheme.
10. Be patient and never give up!

If you are a new exporter and you need assistance in any of the above, then the AIEx can assist you. Established in 1957, the Australian Institute of Export (AIEx) is the education arm of the Export Council of Australia. AIEx collaborates with the export and import community to ensure that Australian companies receive the education and support they need to successfully compete on the international stage.  The AIEx delivers courses and publications on:

• Export Procedures & Documentation
• Import Procedures & Documentation
• Understanding Documentary Credits
• Online Import and Export courses
• International Trade Law & IP
• Accredited Trade Courses
• Australian Export/ Import Handbooks & International Trade Procedures Guidelines

AIEx possesses a wide range of training modules which allow business to develop in-house training programs in International Trade that fit with their specific needs. 

For further information, please visit: www.aiex.com.au or email education@export.org.au