For Queensland exporters, geopolitical risk is no longer a future consideration. It is becoming part of everyday business.
Navigating this complex environment can be challenging, but Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) is here to help. As the Queensland Government’s dedicated trade and investment agency, TIQ works closely with exporters to understand shifting market conditions, mitigate risks, and seize new opportunities.
Trade policy changes, tariffs, supply chain disruptions, technology restrictions and shifting global alliances are creating new challenges for businesses. However, with the right support and preparation, these challenges can also open doors to growth. TIQ’s expert advisers and tailored programs, such as the Queensland Exporter Academy, are designed to equip businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an uncertain world.
A report by McKinsey & Company based on insights from 200 senior leaders found that while most recognise geopolitical risk is affecting their organisations, relatively few have the systems, planning and governance needed to respond quickly when circumstances change. The research found that:
- more than 80 per cent of business leaders say the current geopolitical environment has negatively affected their business
- trade barriers were identified as the single most disruptive geopolitical risk over the past five years
- technology controls, including AI, cybersecurity and intellectual property restrictions, ranked as the second biggest challenge
- fewer than one-third of organisations believe their geopolitical risk management capabilities are mature.
Perhaps most importantly, many businesses know they face growing risks but have not yet developed practical ways to respond.
Five ways Queensland exporters can build resilience
The report highlights five practical actions businesses can take to strengthen their readiness.
- Stay informed and scan the horizon. Successful exporters actively monitor policy changes, tariffs, sanctions and market developments before they become major issues. Regular horizon scanning helps businesses identify risks early and respond with confidence.
- Plan for different scenarios. Rather than relying on a single forecast, leading businesses consider a range of possible futures. Thinking through different scenarios helps organisations make faster decisions when conditions change.
- Build flexibility into your operations. Diversifying suppliers, exploring new markets and reducing dependence on a single customer or supply chain can improve resilience while creating new opportunities for growth.
- Review your export strategy regularly. Global trade continues to evolve. Businesses that regularly assess market opportunities, trade corridors and customer demand are better positioned to adapt as conditions change.
- Keep investing for the future. Periods of uncertainty can create opportunities. Businesses that continue investing in market development, capability building and innovation are often better placed to outperform competitors when conditions improve.
Queensland exporters do not have to navigate these challenges alone.
TIQ works with exporters every day to help them understand changing market conditions, identify new opportunities and build the capability needed to succeed internationally.
Whether you are preparing to enter your first overseas market or expanding into new regions, support is available through the Queensland Exporter Academy and TIQ’s experienced export advisers.
Take the next step
Build your export capability. The Queensland Exporter Academy offers practical workshops and learning resources designed to help Queensland businesses strengthen their export capability and respond to changing global markets.
Talk with an expert. If geopolitical developments are affecting your export plans, or you are considering new markets, book a confidential discussion with one of TIQ’s expert advisers. They can provide practical guidance tailored to your business, helping you manage risk while identifying opportunities for growth.
Is your business ready to unlock global markets? Learn more about your future export success through TIQ.
Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to expand your global footprint or a new exporter starting your journey, TIQ can help you scale your business internationally.