It is essential to carry out research on markets and potential competitors before you begin exporting. This helps you position your product or service within a target market. Many ICT companies face intense competition in global markets and need to minimise time, risk and costs associated with taking technologies overseas.

You should at least undertake your own research to identify your main competitors. This may be as simple as an Internet search or attending a local trade show where international companies exhibit, such as CeBIT Australia. Find out about your competitors’ products or services and identify points of difference – and remember that you will need to explain these to potential customers.

Austrade can also conduct desk research and confidential industry interviews to ascertain the extent of your competitors’ activities. A market with fewer competitors may be an attractive launching spot for new exporters. We can also give you specific information about your target market, such as size, segmentation, trends, growth, barriers and composition. This is particularly important if you are targeting a niche or vertical market sector.

If you are interested in this service, your Austrade export adviser will need a detailed brief outlining:

• For competitor analysis, known competitors (include their websites if possible) and an overview of your product or service and what vertical or market sectors it fits into.
• For market analysis, ask for the specific information you need, for example size, segmentation, buying patterns, etc.

Competitor and market analysis services are provided on a fee-for-service basis. For more information on Austrade’s fees, please read our Client Service Charter.