Australian Export Grants 2026: EMDG & Trade

Export Market Development Grant (EMDG)

The Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) is a key financial assistance program for Australian SMEs looking to expand their export activities. In 2026, eligible SMEs with an annual turnover of less than AUD 20 million can receive reimbursement of up to 50% of their eligible export promotion expenses. This includes costs related to marketing, promotional activities, and attending trade fairs. The EMDG aims to encourage small and medium enterprises to develop sustainable export markets.

Austrade Advisory Services

Austrade, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, provides comprehensive advisory services to SMEs. These services include market intelligence, export strategy development, and connections with potential overseas partners. Austrade's expertise helps businesses navigate the complexities of international trade, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter new markets.

TradeStart Network

The TradeStart network is a collaborative initiative between Austrade and various local chambers of commerce and industry bodies. It offers on-the-ground support to SMEs by providing access to Austrade's resources and expertise. TradeStart advisors work closely with businesses to develop export strategies, identify opportunities, and overcome barriers to international trade.

Free Trade Agreement Opportunities

Australia's participation in several free trade agreements (FTAs) provides significant opportunities for SMEs:

Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)

The CPTPP includes 11 countries and offers Australian SMEs preferential access to key markets across the Asia-Pacific region. It reduces tariffs and simplifies trade regulations, making it easier for businesses to export goods and services.

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

RCEP is the world's largest trade agreement, encompassing 15 countries. It provides Australian SMEs with improved access to markets in Asia, enhancing trade flows and reducing barriers.

Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement

The Australia-UK FTA strengthens trade ties between the two countries, offering Australian SMEs tariff-free access to the UK market for most goods. This agreement opens new opportunities for businesses in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Program	Support Offered	Eligibility
EMDG	Reimbursement of up to 50% of export promotion expenses	SMEs with turnover under AUD 20 million
Austrade Advisory Services	Market intelligence and export strategy support	All SMEs
TradeStart Network	Local export support and Austrade resources	All SMEs
CPTPP	Preferential market access	All SMEs
RCEP	Improved market access in Asia	All SMEs
Australia-UK FTA	Tariff-free access to UK market	All SMEs

FAQs

What expenses are eligible under the EMDG?

Eligible expenses include costs related to marketing, promotional activities, attending trade fairs, and other export promotion activities.

How can Austrade help my SME?

Austrade provides market intelligence, export strategy development, and connections with potential overseas partners to help SMEs succeed in international markets.

What is the TradeStart network?

The TradeStart network offers local support to SMEs by providing access to Austrade's resources and expertise through partnerships with chambers of commerce and industry bodies.

How do FTAs benefit Australian SMEs?

FTAs reduce tariffs, simplify trade regulations, and provide preferential access to international markets, making it easier for SMEs to export goods and services.

Is my business eligible for the EMDG?

To be eligible for the EMDG, your business must have an annual turnover of less than AUD 20 million and incur eligible export promotion expenses.