FIAL boosts digital ecommerce platform

Market connectivity through ecommerce is more urgent than ever before, Food Innovation Australia Limited (FIAL) says. The not-for-profit, industry-led government initiative has refreshed its Australian Food Catalogue (AFC) to boost its trade credentials.

The AFC is a digital platform connecting export-ready Australian food suppliers with qualified international buyers. Free to use, businesses can showcase their products directly to buyers specifically looking to source Australian products. It is the only online guide endorsed by Austrade and various state agencies across Australia, FIAL said.

FIAL has refreshed the features with numerous advancements, pioneering new territory within the food and agriculture industry. It said these capabilities will facilitate Australian suppliers to connect with international buyers, securing the trade deals essential to their bottom lines.

FIAL general manager commercial Rod Arenas said: “The sector wants online solutions that deliver tangible outcomes in accelerating commercially driven collaboration. FIAL continues to utilise opportunities to transform current models to achieve strategic industry growth.

“We have seen a sharp increase in buyers registering for the platform since travel restrictions came into effect. Australian products are still in demand and the Australian Food Catalogue is the digital bridge to accessing these opportunities, providing the sector with the resources to remain resilient and competitive.”

New features include product videos, an instant chat function, and the ability for suppliers to submit applications to sourcing requests.

FIAL is also hosting a series of virtual ‘Meet-the-Buyer’ events. Exporters can attend a one-to-one video conference with qualified buyers from various international markets. The recent pilot event received an overwhelming response from industry, with an oversubscription of companies reflecting the high demand for initiatives of this kind.

For more information and to register visit here.