A new strategic partnership to empower Australian businesses to enter and succeed in Asian markets has been signed, between the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), and Asialink Business, Australia’s National Centre for Asia Capability.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed in Canberra, Austrade and Asialink Business, which is hosted by the University of Melbourne, will leverage their combined expertise and networks to deliver comprehensive support to Australian businesses, particularly SMEs, looking to engage in Asia.
The partnership will have a strong emphasis on building capability and awareness of markets in Southeast Asia and South Asia.
Austrade and Asialink Business will jointly engage in a range of initiatives under this partnership, including:
- Awareness and Knowledge Building: Joint campaigns, events, and the Asialink Business Doing Business Guides—accessible via Austrade’s Go Global Toolkit—will equip Australian businesses with essential insights for success in Asia.
- Capability Uplift: Asialink Business’s targeted learning programs to upskill businesses, will build a pipeline of Asia-ready exporters, accessible via Austrade’s trade mission programs and promoted widely through Austrade’s digital channels for maximum reach and impact.
- Ecosystem Collaboration: Together, Austrade and Asialink Business will activate a robust partner network, including state trade agencies, industry bodies, business councils, and diaspora communities to foster greater capacity within Australia’s trade ecosystem.
“We are focussed on helping Australian businesses build their knowledge and capability in key sectors across Asia, including in the digital and green economies, agrifood, consumer goods, and education,” said Austrade acting CEO, Daniel Boyer.
“This partnership will help more businesses, faster, to understand the value and enormous opportunity of Asia, particularly in Southeast and South Asia, as Australia strengthens its economic ties with the region.
“The MOU reflects a shared vision for Australia’s economic future, fostering an Asia-capable business community that contributes to national prosperity by building lasting ties with our closest neighbours.”
Asialink CEO, Leigh Howard, echoed the sentiments of Boyer.
“Asialink Business is delighted to partner with Austrade to support Australian businesses’ growth ambitions in Asia,” he said.
“This partnership is an exciting opportunity for Asialink Business to elevate our impact by aligning with Austrade’s scale and reach.
“By combining the strengths of two trusted organisations, we’re not just providing tools and resources, but creating a connected pathway that builds confidence, capability, and success for Australian businesses in Asia.”