The State Government has moved to tailor its approach to export policy and trade missions by asking the business community about their offshore plans and experience.

Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith has announced that a survey, sent to around 2000 businesses, is seeking feedback on a number of issues with the view of better understanding the needs of both aspiring and experienced exporters.

“I want to know in as much detail as possible the experiences and endeavours – past, present and future – of South Australian exporters across every industry,” Hamilton-Smith said.

“The survey asks local exporters, for example, about what markets they intend to target and their previous involvement in trade missions, either inward or outward.

“As the State Government continues to grow its trade and investment strategy, it’s critical we consult with the business community to inform the State Government’s future policy directions.

“This survey presents a prime opportunity for South Australian exporters to have their say and I encourage each and every one to do so.”

The survey has received about 250 responses to date.

Fresh from a successful visit to Shandong, China, Premier Jay Weatherill will lead a business delegation to South East Asia in August.

Businesses with a focus in four industry sectors have been invited to lodge expressions of interest to join the delegation which will visit Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand from 16-22 August.

Expressions of interest to participate must be lodged with the Department of State Development (DSD) by Wednesday, 17 June.

Companies wishing to join the delegation must be engaged in one of the four industry sectors on which the trade mission is focussed, which are:

• Food, wine and agribusiness
• Defence, aerospace, electronics and advanced manufacturing
• Liveable cities, health and aged care
• Tourism, arts and education.

Announcing the delegation, the DSD said “the program will provide opportunities for informal networking with businesses, round table discussions, site visits, and presentations by industry experts and public sector leaders”.

DSD added: “Each business stream will have its own individual program of activity”.

“Businesses are encouraged to develop in-market meetings with their clients and potential trading partners outside of these times.

“The State Government, in liaison with Austrade offices in South East Asia can assist with facilitating other business matching activities, subject to discussions with individual businesses on a case-by-case basis.”

Information on the mission, an expression of interest form, and terms and conditions of participation can be found here.