Global

In a global economy, protecting your IP internationally is more important than ever. Whether scaling up for commercialisation, launching into overseas markets or entering into new commercial arrangements, our understanding of global overseas IP practices means we can empower you to make the best commercial decisions, whilst minimising risk.

We turn to our network of international trusted advisors when assisting our clients to promote their interests in jurisdictions all over the world. Decades of dealing with the quirks of international IP jurisdictions means that we are a trusted resource to facilitate your access to the best international technical experts. This access can mean protecting your IP in the right countries and in the correct manner putting you in the best position to deal with unforeseen competitor activity or achieve the best commercialisation outcome.

Canada

Canada's economic prosperity is underpinned by trade and investment, with resources and manufacturing remaining economic mainstays. Sectors such as agribusiness, life sciences, clean energy and technology are experiencing growth. With plans to continue to foster a diversified and innovative future economy, Canada is looking to create opportunities in advanced technologies.

The relationship between Australia and Canada is well developed, with ongoing contact and collaboration between governments, business, academics, and communities. The bilateral partnership, underpinned by the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, ensures shared objectives in development and priorities for cooperation including sustainable economic growth.

For further information on Canada, please contact Sylvan Browne.

China

China, Australia's largest trading partner, is increasingly economically driven by domestic consumption. Presenting significant opportunities for Australian exporters and service providers, Australia will look to maintain and build upon the trading partnership it has had with China in recent years. Rapid technological advances in e-commerce and fintech, a significant investment in infrastructure, and growth in manufacturing, are helping to reshape China's economy. This reshaping created a demand for building materials, energy for electricity and transport, and raw materials for manufacturing.

Australia continues to be well placed to meet much of this demand and it remains as well a ready market for Chinese manufactured goods. The free trade agreement between the two countries supports this future economic growth, trade and investment. The comprehensive and strategic bilateral partnership between Australia and China is based on strong economic and trade ties, a comprehensive program of high-level visits and wide-ranging cooperation.

For more information on China, please contact Rachel Hooke.

Europe

Australia and Europe are currently working towards a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, in the hopes of increasing export market share, economic growth and job creation. Despite progress in growing Australia–EU linkages in services and e-commerce, Australia’s exports remain dominated by natural resources and our imports from the EU are predominantly manufactured goods. Commercial cooperation and bilateral investment in energy and resources, agribusiness, medical technology and infrastructure are current areas where opportunities exist for Australian businesses.

Currently, the Australia-EU Partnership Framework underpins the bilateral relationship between the two economies. The Agreement provides a platform for discussion and cooperation on issues such as the environment, security, foreign policy, and human rights.

For further information on Europe, please contact Brett Lunn.

India

As the world's largest democracy, India is considered an important and strategic partner of Australia. Underpinned by trade and investment, the scope of Australia’s relationship with India has increased in line with India’s rapid economic and strategic growth. As a major trading partner and export market, the two countries share strong community, economic, and political ties.

Currently, resources comprise Australia’s largest exports to India, with opportunities in other sectors increasing, including in education, tourism, infrastructure, mining equipment and technology. With the India Economic Strategy setting out a plan to transform Australia’s economic partnership with India by 2035, India is seen to be at the forefront of Australia's international partnerships.

For further information on India, please contact Paul Whenman.

Japan

Japan's economy is one of the largest in the world and whilst the country is looking to support a local high-tech digital and societal transformation, it is also pursuing growth opportunities globally. Despite significant competition from other Asian markets, it remains a strong market for Australian businesses, particularly in established commodities and goods including coal, LNG, beef, sugar, and wheat.

Japan remains a global leader in the production of high quality appliances, electronics, automobiles, chemicals and machinery. The Australia–Japan relationship is vital to both countries' strategic and economic interests, and is underpinned by the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement.

This agreement gives Australian exporters significantly improved market access in goods and services and substantially improves investment protections.

For further information on Japan, please contact Patrick McManamny.

South Korea

The mature, industrialised economy of the Republic of Korea (ROK, also known as South Korea) has grown rapidly in recent decades and relies on exports, particularly in shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing, electronics, steel and chemicals. South Korea is also now focussing on fostering innovation in science and technology, such as artificial intelligence and robotics.

The strong and strategic economic relationship between the Republic of Korea and Australia is supported by the Korea Australia Free Trade Agreement. Comprehensive in scope, the agreement delivers improvements in market and trade access. The ROK is a key market for Australian minerals, energy, raw materials and food and Australia is a major market for ROK passenger vehicles, petroleum, and electronic goods.

Bilateral Relations have strengthened considerably in recent years, with cooperation on international affairs reinforcing this partnership.

For further information on South Korea, please contact Sylvan Browne.

United States of America

The US economy is the largest in the world and is characterised by entrepreneurship, new technologies and innovation. Research and development, collaboration and education in conjunction with innovation are the major drivers of US economic growth. The US is one of Australia’s most important trade and investment partners and is a key research and development partner for Australian businesses and institutions.

Australia and the United States have maintained over 75 years of diplomatic relations through robust bilateral relations. This relationship is characterised by cultural and policy similarities spanning foreign policy, trade and investment, law, defence and security, intelligence, development, energy, environment, and education.

The Australia-US Free Trade Agreement is key to this relationship and also contributes to widespread global government, academic, and business collaboration.

For further information on the United States, please contact Brett Lunn.