BUSINESS ASIA HUB

As Australia’s most important trading partner, China is one country your business probably shouldn’t ignore. We share tips to help you get started.

Chinese data generally weaker in July, returning to trend after strong June

Unwinding road ahead – weaker Chinese producer prices providing headwinds for advanced economy inflation

The pick-up in market price action has continued overnight in FX markets. For the AUD, it’s now pretty much all about the Guy Debelle speech today.

Old King Coal – coal still a big part of China’s energy mix but its role is on the wane

Steady as she goes – economic growth and other key indicators stable in Q2.

Revisions to real GDP growth forecasts this month largely reflect a stronger than expected rebound in coal exports following disruptions from Cyclone Debbie in Q1. Further out, we have not fundamentally changed the tone of our outlook.

Fifteen years ago, two separate groups of enthusiastic investors and abalone farmers set out to secure a footing on the global stage. It wasn’t until they joined forces in 2008 that everything changed and the farms, within the space of nine years, went from individual 70-tonne entities to being the biggest producer of abalone in the southern hemisphere.

In May, international ratings agency Moody’s announced a downgrade for China’s sovereign credit rating, citing the country’s rising debt as a key factor in this decision.

Fifty years ago Australia’s main export market was the United Kingdom, shipping wool and wheat. Today over 83% of all Australian exports are going to Asian countries. Nuts and grains – specifically, nuts – are climbing the ranks of top exports.

The NAB Monthly Business Survey was a little softer in May, but still points to a healthy business sector. Business conditions are elevated and confidence is holding up above long-run average levels.

Trends stable across the board, no sign of a major economic slowdown.