Tariff cuts export boost

THE opportunities for McMillan businesses to export are continuing to grow, according to McMillan MP Russell Broadbent, with a third round of tariff cuts under the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA).
Mr Broadbent said tariffs on a further 1200 products had fallen, providing a competitive boost for Australian exporters.
“Ninety two per cent of Australian products are now entering Japan duty-free,” he said.
“This will increase each year until 2034, when 98 per cent of our goods will enter duty free or receive Australia-only preferential access.”
Mr Broadbent said the three landmark free trade agreements the Coalition concluded with the major economies of north Asia are creating opportunities for McMillan businesses – particularly farming enterprises – to grow and expand.
“The agreements with Korea, Japan and China form a powerful trifecta, which is opening doors to millions more customers for McMillan businesses,” he said.
“These agreements are not just for big business and companies that are already active in international markets, they are for small and medium businesses to take advantage of.”
Mr Broadbent said the Coalition Government had launched a new FTA Portal to help small and medium businesses take advantage of the free trade agreements.
“Many businesses are looking to export but are uncertain about how to go about it and whether they are price competitive,” he said.
“The new FTA Portal seeks to answer those questions. It provides free and accurate information on tariffs under the FTAs so small and medium businesses can easily work out how price competitive they will be.
“I want to see local businesses taking advantage of the free trade agreements to boost jobs and growth in the McMillan economy.”