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BDO urges business to enter Qld Export Awards
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BDO executive director Cameron MacMillan has warned "the clock is ticking" on entries for the 2010 Premier of Queensland's Export Awards, urging Queensland exporters to register before Friday's application deadline.  Cameron MacMillan, BDO
"Queensland exporters should seriously consider the benefits of applying for the awards, which provide a tremendous marketing opportunity and can enhance access to new markets and improve business relationships," Mr MacMillan said.
"BDO is proud to support the export awards, and is determined to assist the growth of Queensland exporters by utilising the international experience and resources of our global network, which spans 1,095 offices in 110 countries.
"This has proved extremely valuable to local clients including multi-award winning Brisbane-based design consultancy Urban Art Projects, to help take their businesses to the global market."
He said according to ABS data, Queensland companies generated more than $52billion in exports during the financial year 2008/09.
The Queensland Government has forecast export growth will reach a nine-year high of 6.75 percent in the2010 financial year, and remain strong through to FY2012.
Mr MacMillan said he was focused on boosting the export-readiness of Queensland firms across the manufacturing and services sectors, with the resulting benefits to exports, jobs and growth for the state economy.
"Many exporters are unaware of the government services available to aid their export efforts, including Austrade's Export Market Development Grants and the advisory services provided by Austrade and Trade Queensland," Mr MacMillan said.
"Making the leap offshore can be challenging, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, but the rewards can be significant for those wanting to open up new markets and new growth opportunities."
With last year's export award winners including Urban Art Projects, food processing manufacturer Heat and Control, electrical engineers NOJA Power Switchgear, indigenous artist Vernon Ah Kee and honey maker Capilano Honey, this year's awards are likely to again include entrants from a variety of industries, regions and business sizes.
"The export awards span a range of categories, from agribusiness, arts and entertainment and information and communication technology through to minerals and energy and SME services and manufacturing," Mr MacMillan said.
"This really opens up the field to a great variety of businesses, who are all contributing to the development of Queensland's diversified and dynamic economy."
Finalists and winners will be announced at the Premier of Queensland's Export Awards gala dinner sponsored by BDO, which will be hosted by Premier Anna Bligh on the evening of October 21.
Mr MacMillan urged new exporters to consider some basic steps in assessing their export readiness:
- Develop an export strategy as part of your business plan, with a 3-5 year timeline
- Be prepared for losses in the first 2-3 years, and implement appropriate risk management controls
- Invest time and effort in visiting the overseas market. When selecting a business partner, ensure they match your corporate culture and communication requirements.
BDO offers a wide range of business and corporate advisory services to clients ranging from large corporate organisations to private businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals across a wide range of industry sectors and in Australia has more than 140 partners and directors supported by over 1,200 staff.
www.bdo.com.au
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