As trade disruption persists through shifting tariffs, higher freight costs and uncertain delivery times, WA exporters are considering how to mitigate the impact on their operations.
“Is it a bump in the road or is it a bumpier road looking forward?”
L-R: CCIWA’s Lena Constantine, ICAL International Customs and Logistics Director Mark Coleman, Craig Mostyn Group’s Wayne Crofts, Perth Airport’s Punit Mahal, NCI Trade Credit Solutions’ Sarah Bracegirdle, Austrade’s Chris Morely and CCIWA’s Darren Levy
That was the question Craig Mostyn Group CEO Wayne Crofts put to WA businesses at a recent trade disruption and resilience event hosted by Austrade in collaboration with CCIWA and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI).
With CCIWA TradeStart Adviser Darren Levy as MC and CCIWA Commercial Services Director Lena Constantine as panel discussion facilitator, about 50 WA businesses also heard insights from Austrade Senior Global Engagement Manager – Red Meat, Dairy & Fibre Chris Morley, ICAL International Customs and Logistics Director Mark Coleman, NCI Trade Credit Solutions Head of Service WA Sarah Bracegirdle and Perth Airport of Aviation Business Development.
FIND OUT MORE: Austrade’s Trade Resilience Service – practical intelligence, insights and advice to help you navigate increased supply chain volatility.
Finding the risks that could stop trade
In sharing how Craig Mostyn Group has navigated trade uncertainty and disruption over the past year, Crofts outlined how global instability is affecting markets, policies and supply across the business operations.
The business examined the essential links in its operations, including power, transport, fuel and packaging, and considered how to respond if one was to be disrupted. It also worked to align teams to make faster decisions as conditions changed.
“Because we think managing these risks is the new norm, we just need to be aware of it and set ourselves up for to actually manage through it,” Crofts said.
“We have to be agile … and be aware of market dynamics, geopolitics and policy – whether it be buyer security, market closures or other trade disruptions so that we can pivot from there.”
Despite the immediate pressures, he said population and income growth in Asia provided confidence in long-term demand for Australian food.
Keep customers close and check the contract
“Contact them every three six months to see how things are going,” he said.
“Keep that relationship open so that when – and it will happen – things do calm back down and life gets back to normal for exporters, you still have that relationship, and you resume selling your goods to that particular customer.”
Coleman also encouraged exporters to revisit previous prospects as competitors pull back, and to discuss rising freight costs openly with customers.
With the Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement expected to come into effect by 2028, he said businesses should start engaging and negotiating with the market now.
On the practical side, Coleman emphasised the importance of detailed sales contracts, a clear understanding of Incoterms and steps to manage payment risk.
“If pay rates go through the roof or tariffs get applied, but you have the appropriate sales contract in place, you may be legally able to pass on those costs,” he said.
Coleman also advised exporters to allow for shipping delays and insure cargo against loss or damage.
Support across the supply chain
Austrade’s Chris Morley discussed how market research, overseas connections and its trade resilience services can help exporters identify new opportunities when established trade flows change.
FIND OUT MORE: Austrade’s Go Global Toolkit – information, tools and support to grow your business globally
NCI Trade Credit Solutions’ Sarah Bracegirdle covered buyer due diligence, monitoring customers and protecting against non-payment.
Perth Airport’s Punit Mahal outlined how air connections and airport development could support future freight capacity.
Get help to build your trade resilience
Our International Trade Services team can help WA businesses navigate export requirements, build capability and connect with practical support, including through our TradeStart advisory services.
Contact our trade team to discuss your business’s next steps at [email protected].
Austrade also offers market insights, overseas connections and resources for businesses exploring export opportunities.
