Australia’s Trade Minister announced the rollout of the Trade Resilience Service, a 12-month Austrade program that provides real-time advice from trade and logistics experts to help exporters find alternative shipping routes and maintain supply chains.

The initiative, born under the Albanese government, is designed to support Australian exporters affected by the Iran war and related shipping disruptions amid rising freight costs, insurance concerns, and fewer redirect options for perishable goods.

The service aims to back businesses during uncertainty by offering immediate logistical guidance and options for rerouting shipments as global trade conditions tighten.

Australia’s strongest Gulf partner remains the UAE, with two-way trade around $12.7 billion for 2024–25 and growth expected as the remaining tariffs are removed under a free-trade agreement.

The program particularly targets South Australian producers, including food and wine exporters, who face higher shipping costs and route changes, with container prices noted rising from about €2,000 to €4,000 and potential further increases.

The ongoing conflict has tightened global oil supplies and disrupted shipping, adding surcharges for Australian exporters even after vessels depart port.

Industry voices, including Banquet Foods owner Don Totino, warned that higher shipping costs are squeezing pricing and margins, underscoring the need for practical government support.

The federal government launched the new export-support program as part of a response to Middle East trade disruption, including the closure of key routes like the Strait of Hormuz.

While currently focused on the Resilience Program, ministers suggested future actions could involve the Treasurer and additional government measures to relieve ongoing exporter-cost pressures.

The Trade Resilience Service builds on the $50 million Accessing New Markets Initiative, which supports exporters in forming new partnerships and markets following the UAE–Australia free-trade framework.

The service will deliver real-time logistical guidance to help exporters locate alternative routes through the Middle East or other markets, enhancing resilience.