International Trade

Our lawyers have experience in international trading transactions, involving UK, the United States and countries in Europe and Asia-Pacific region. Stephens Lawyers & Consultants has assisted overseas corporations with successful entry into the Australian market, and local companies with export and import strategies. The firm also provides legal and consultative services on import and export business.

Katarina Klaric, Director, participated in the Australian Government, Woman In Global Business (“WIGB”) program, mentoring businesswomen with expansion of their business into overseas markets.

Companies considering international expansion have a number of structural options to consider:

Establish a branch office or subsidiary company
Acquire or merge with a local company or business
Enter into a joint venture agreement, partnership, management or agency agreement with a local company or business
Enter into an area development, master licence, franchise or distribution agreement for a territory
Enter into technology transfer agreements

The vehicle ultimately chosen for expansion of a company’s operations will be influenced by factors such as:

Financial resources and personnel levels
Refinements required to products or systems to suit the local market
Economic or financial incentives offered by local governments
The taxation system
Local laws and regulations
Required returns on investment and potential risks
Exit opportunities or strategies.