International interest in Australia's export support
Six global freight forwarders and nine air cargo carriers have been selected to participate in Australia's International Freight Assistance Mechanism (IFAM) to re-establish global supply chains. In the first three weeks of its operation, over 560 businesses have registered their interest in utilising the IFAM. Through the AUD 110 million (EUR 64 million) programme, the government will meet a portion of the airfreight costs – reducing costs for exporters and ensuring they can get their produce to international markets quickly.
Three Middle Eastern carriers are also taking part. Qatar Airways Cargo is offering over 750 t of weekly capacity for high value fresh produce, and Emirates Skycargo is currently serving Sydney with four weekly flights on B777F and Melbourne with five weekly flights on B777-300ER, while Etihad Cargo will add weekly freighters to Down Under. (ah)