FedEx has released new research examining the opportunities and constraints facing Asia Pacific (APAC) businesses trading with Europe, with the findings highlighting both growing demand and persistent challenges for Australian exporters.
The APAC–Europe Study surveyed 850 small and medium businesses and large corporations across 13 APAC markets, including Australia, that currently sell goods to Europe.
According to the study, Australian businesses are increasingly viewing Europe as a key diversification market. Seventy-one per cent of surveyed Australian businesses reported increased trade volumes to Europe over the past year, with 30 per cent recording growth of more than 10 per cent. Confidence has also strengthened, with 61 per cent stating that their perception of trading with Europe has improved over the same period.
The survey shows that Europe already forms a substantial part of the customer base for many exporters. Thirty-two per cent of Australian respondents say the region represents more than a quarter of their customers, while eight per cent report that more than half of their customers are European. When identifying the most promising markets, businesses ranked the UK (50 per cent), Germany (28 per cent), and France (27 per cent) as their top opportunities.
However, respondents also pointed to continuing barriers. High logistics costs were cited by 45 per cent of surveyed Australian businesses, followed by import taxes and tariffs (36 per cent) and supply chain challenges, including shipment delays (33 per cent). Businesses identified cost-effective logistics solutions, market intelligence, and customs expertise as the main areas where support is needed.
“Europe represents a key opportunity for Australian businesses looking to diversify,” says Peter Langley, vice president of operations, FedEx Australasia. He notes that FedEx aims to streamline the process through its global network, digital tools, and local trade expertise.
FedEx recently added five weekly flights connecting Asia to Europe, bringing the total to 26 weekly services and enabling express deliveries to major European destinations in as little as 48 hours. The company also offers digital customs tools and its Go To Europe Hub, which provides market insights and guidelines for businesses expanding into Europe.
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