STREAMLINED TRADE A STEP CLOSER

 

Streamlined trade is now a step closer with the launch of the highly anticipated Australian Trusted Trader.

 

The Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Michaelia Cash today unveiled the programme and confirmed the first four industry participants.

 

“The Department has been working very closely with industry to design a programme that will ensure that Australian businesses are as economically competitive as possible,” Minister Cash said.

 

The Australian Logistic Council estimates that as much as $1.5 billion can be saved for every one per cent increase in efficiency of transport and logistics supply chains. These savings will flow directly and indirectly to industry and the Australian economy.

 

The programme will also increase the security and certainty of Australian trade by offering trade facilitation incentives to businesses that demonstrate secure and compliant supply chain practices.

“Australian Trusted Trader is built on the dual pillars of security and trade facilitation - this is pioneering work, as many similar programmes overseas focus only on one or the other,” Minister Cash said.

“The programme will build resilience against organised crime groups and terrorism while simultaneously fostering active partnerships with industry and encouraging economic growth through tailored trade benefits and red tape reduction.”

“Having just returned from China, I welcome the close trade ties between our countries. In this age of globalisation, working together with our international partners through programmes such as Australian Trusted Trader will help build connected borders.”

“Australia must not be left behind. China's other key trading partners all operate similar programmes, and Australia must maintain a programme to build closer cooperation and reduce barriers to trade.”

Benefits being pursued for accredited Australian Trusted Traders include expedited border clearance, reduced or priority inspections, priority access to trade services, and a dedicated account manager. Mechanisms for the delivery of other benefits, including duty deferral and streamlined reporting arrangements, are also being explored.

 

The Trusted Trader pilot partners are Boeing Aerostructures Australia, Devondale Murray Goulburn, Mondelez Australia and Techwool Trading.