As conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt trade, freight and supply chains, two recent Austrade webinars with expert panels provided timely and practical guidance for businesses, highlighting the key economic, payment and logistics risks exporters may need to factor into current planning.
Economic Outlook and Export Strategies
Austrade’s 26 March webinar looked at the broader trade and economic picture, including regional risks, export payments and practical steps for businesses trading with the Middle East. While trade is continuing in some markets, the message was clear: businesses should be prepared for higher costs, payment delays and ongoing uncertainty.
Businesses were encouraged to stay close to customers, banks, insurers and advisers, and to check payment terms carefully. The webinar also highlighted the need to keep a close eye on credit risk, freight disruption and rising input costs.
Key takeaways for businesses included:
The session also made the point that conditions can differ across the region, so businesses should rely on current advice, local market intelligence and sensible contingency planning rather than broad assumptions.
Global Freight and Logistics
Austrade’s 31 March webinar focused on the freight and logistics challenges now facing exporters. Speakers highlighted longer lead times, volatile pricing, less reliable shipping schedules and the growing risk of cargo being rerouted or unloaded at alternate ports.
The clear message for businesses was to stay flexible and work closely with freight partners. Exporters were encouraged to monitor shipments closely, recost regularly, review contracts and keep customers informed about potential delays or added costs.
Businesses were also encouraged to focus on practical supply chain disciplines, including:
A strong theme throughout the session was that freight conditions are shifting quickly and may remain unsettled for some time. For South Australian businesses, that means planning early, staying responsive and building flexibility into supply chain decisions wherever possible.
Visit the following links and set up or log in to your free Austrade Go Global Toolkit account to view the full webinar recordings:
A full list of Austrade Export Academy Sector and Market Insight recordings, plus upcoming webinars, is available in the Austrade Go Global Toolkit online.
