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Customs, Trade and Transport

International trade conventions, Free Trade Agreements, domestic legislation and the Internet are breaking down barriers to trade. Yet, at the same time, the regulations are becoming more complex for companies trading into Australia or beyond our borders.

Inbound traders are subject to Foreign Investment Review Board legislation, GST, quarantine, trade practices, dumping, customs and excise laws. Those trading outbound face issues relating to trade financing, shipping, commodity and freight contracts, as well as International Trade Convention obligations.

All traders face litigation, both here and overseas, and need to manage significant insurance exposure.

Service providers to traders, including customs brokers, freight forwarders, shipping companies and airlines, need to be aware of all current restrictions and impending future changes to these restrictions.

All parties must also confront the new legislative regime associated with security issues, such as aviation and maritime security obligations.

Hunt & Hunt provides a comprehensive range of services to those involved in this industry and also has close relationships with complementary service providers, including the Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association. We provide legal and advisory services to importers, exporters, customs brokers, freight forwarders and trade financiers.

We are at the forefront of Australia's Free Trade negotiations and are well placed to advise on how FTAs will affect Australian and international organisations.

Our firm has good relationships with all associated Commonwealth and State government departments, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Transport and Regional Services, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, and Customs. 

Additionally, Hunt & Hunt has entered into a strategic alliance with the Australian government's export promotions agency, Austrade.  By sharing knowledge and best practice, Austrade and Hunt & Hunt will jointly be able to provide practical assistance and the latest information to entities that are seeking to export their products or services overseas.

Our Services

Advice on aviation and maritime security obligations and insurance Assistance with finding service providers for the carriage of goods to and from overseas markets
Advice on charter party, bill of lading and air waybill dispute Dumping investigations                     
Advice on International Trade Conventions and all manner of related litigation including arbitration on international sales and shipping contracts Sale and purchase of vessels and aircraft
Advice on legislative developments and government affairs Structuring of trade financing
Advice on reporting obligations to customs authorities Tariff and valuation advice
Advice on the terms of any FTA and corresponding Australian domestic legislation, including Rules of Origin and entry requirements  

For further information, contact Andrew Hudson.

Click here to download the Customs, Trade and Transport fact sheet in PDF

Latest News

31 July 2008 The demise of the Doha round and some immediate consequences
27 May 2008 FTA with Chile concluded
14 May 2008 CTT Budget consequences
25 March 2008 Government rolls out new legislation with impacts to industry
8 April 2008     New Zealand and China sign a Free Trade Agreement

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