Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant Program: CMA recently submitted an application for DFAT’s Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant Program. We appreciate the valuable comments received from members in response to our alert on the Grant Program. The application highlights our industry’s heavy reliance on the Chinese market and aims to support export diversification by focusing on Thailand and Vietnam. These countries present significant growth opportunities but our exports to these markets face non-tariff technical barriers despite existing FTAs. If we receive the funding CMA will partner with Beyond Export to identify regulatory barriers, explore resolution opportunities, and develop practical solutions to enhance market access in these countries. The project will involve comprehensive regulatory research, stakeholder engagement, and the development of reports to support both businesses and government officials.

Navigating US Tariff Changes – Opportunities and Insights for Australian CM Industry: The recent imposition of US tariffs on Australian goods presents both challenges and potential opportunities for our industry. The Australian Government, through agencies like Austrade, is actively working with businesses to address these changes, including hosting a webinar this week to provide guidance. Supply chain resilience and export diversification are now more critical than ever for our business. CMA has requested Austrade to explore emerging opportunities, such as whether businesses are relocating manufacturing operations from the US to Australia within our sector—an area that could benefit local manufacturers if trends develop further. While it’s still early days, reciprocal tariffs on the US from regions like China and the EU may influence global trade dynamics, potentially creating new opportunities for Australian exporters. CMA has also sought advice from Austrade on strategies to mitigate risks and leverage these shifts. We encourage members to monitor Austrade’s dedicated US Tariffs page for evolving updates and resources. This is a dynamic situation, and we remain committed to supporting our members through these developments.