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Media Release

August 4, 2006

SA Business’s battle for the big-time

In 2006, the word “exporting” is on the lips of anyone business-minded. And for those operating within the international marketplace, or considering it ─ UniSA International Business Week is a “must-do” event.

This year, with an expanded schedule of 43 events (nine in regional SA) to accommodate growing public interest, the 19th annual IBW will be launched on 7 August by Treasurer Kevin Foley, and over the course of two weeks will play host to an anticipated 2500 attendees.

Experts agree that crossing international waters presents a multitude of risks and hurdles ─ exchange rates, different regulations and high oil prices being just a few. For exporting to be successful, you need good planning, and the first step in this is getting good advice.

Most of the seminars and panel discussions (many of which are free) will tackle issues all the tough issues at the forefront of foreign trade ─ such as marketing wine in the midst of a wine glut, cultural differences in trading with China, and common legal snags.

Pro Vice Chancellor, Division of Business, Professor Gerry Griffin said that the 19th annual UniSA IBW seminar series was an important event for anyone operating within the global economy, or for those considering it.

"IBW provides a focus for the State's export and import industries and an opportunity for all involved with the business of exporting to come together and learn from each other."

Rex Jones, Senior Business Manager at UniSA’s Division of Business said that exports are a key part of the state’s economic advancement.

“Some South Australian businesses have done extremely well. Examples of SME (Small to Medium Enterprise) success stories include skincare company Jurlique, and designer and manufacturer of horse racing equipment, Adelaide-hills based Steriline.

“Australia’s own domestic market is fairly small so, by increasing the size of the market, exporting opens up many more opportunities,” he said.

For businesses looking to break into the Asian region Professor Alfred Huang’s seminar Business in China, will provide a first-hand insight into the culture of dealing with companies in East Asia and South East Asia.

And for those in the wine industry, Avoiding the Big Boys: Marketing Decisions for small to medium wine makers by UniSA’s Associate Professor Tony Spawton, Dr Herve Remaud and Mr Andre Beaujanot will provide the latest marketing intelligence on the wine glut and the growing influence of supermarkets in marketing and promoting wine.

In The Japanese Business System in the 21st century - challenges and opportunities, UniSA’s Head of School of Management, Professor John Benson, will outline the modern evolution of Japanese economy and highlight opportunities for business to capitalise on market gaps.

There are also presentations from industry partners such as Austrade, the Office of Trade and Business SA.

Four networking sessions and formal presentations will also provide many opportunities to bounce ideas and make important contacts with international business leaders.

For a comprehensive guide to the events schedule for UniSA IBW 2006, please visit http://www.unisaibw.com.au/home.asp

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