Importing & exporting

Strict regulations apply on importing and exporting of goods, this covers customs and quarantine requirements, prohibited & restricted goods and assistance available.

Importing
If you import goods into Australia, you will be affected by certain government regulations. Your goods must be cleared by the Australian Customs Service (Customs) and duty and taxes may be payable. You also need to be aware of import permits, quarantine permits and treatment that apply to imported goods.
- Customs requirements
  All goods imported into Australia must be cleared by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (Customs).
- Prohibited & restricted goods
  Some goods are prohibited or have restrictions so you need to check with the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service before you import them.
- Quarantine requirements
  Before you import goods, you need to find out if your goods fall under quarantine regulations.
- Assistance for importers
  Before you consider importing a product from overseas, check the Industry Capability Network (ICN) to find a competitive local supplier in Australia or New Zealand.
- Labelling requirements
  Labels are used by businesses to convey information about products, to promote features of products that may be attractive to the consumer, or to describe contents that the consumer can't see.
Exporting
Expanding your market can bring enormous benefits to your business, but successful exporting doesn't happen by accident - it needs careful planning and commitment.
- Develop an export plan
  Once you've decided to sell your products overseas you need to develop an export plan.
- Customs requirements for exports
  Exporting of goods from Australia is controlled by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (Customs).
- Quarantine controls on exports
  Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) regulates the export of food, live animals, animal products, fish, aquatic products, plants and grains.
- Financial assistance for exporters
  Promoting your product overseas is a costly exercise, however you may be eligible for assistance to help with the cost of developing your new overseas markets.
- Information on exporting
  There are a number of federal and state based resources available to help you get started with exporting.
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
  There may be opportunities for Australian businesses to tender for work overseas, with the help of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
- Financial assistance for exporters in your state or territory
  Information and guides on financial assistance for exporters in your state or territory.
- Information on exporting in your state or territory
  Useful guides, information and resources on exporting in your state or territory.

This information is brought to you by business.gov.au and BEC Australia
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