News
16 March, 2025
Australian businesses in Asia trends for 2025
THE new year is set to be a defining period for Australian businesses in Asia, as geopolitical shifts, intensifying competition, and regulatory complexity create an increasingly dynamic operating environment. The latest Business Trends in the Year of the Snake report by Asialink Business provides key insights on emerging challenges and opportunities in the region.
Based on a survey of over 100 business and government leaders, the report identifies geopolitical risks, business competition, and regulatory complexity as the top concerns for Australian companies engaging with Asian markets in 2025. The return of Donald Trump to the US presidency, China’s economic recalibration, and political transitions in key regional economies, including Vietnam and Indonesia, contribute to an atmosphere of uncertainty.
Despite these challenges, the digital economy, surging consumer demand, and supply chain diversification stand out as major growth drivers for Australian businesses. With Asia home to almost 60% of the world’s consumers and digital adoption accelerating across the region, businesses that embrace innovation and adaptability will be best positioned for success.
The report also reveals key differences in how businesses and government view the region’s challenges and opportunities:
67 per cent of government respondents identified geopolitical risks as a primary concern, compared to 37 per cent of business respondents;
46 per cent of business respondents highlighted regulatory complexity as a major challenge, compared to 28 per cent of government respondents;
Smaller businesses cited access to finance, skilled talent shortages, and logistics costs as critical barriers to market entry;
With Asia’s economic trajectory shifting, Australian businesses must refine their strategies to remain competitive.
The report underscores the need for businesses to invest in strong local partnerships, digital transformation, and supply chain resilience. With deep expertise in market insights, business strategy, and cross-cultural engagement, Asialink Business helps organisations navigate complexity and build sustainable success in the region.
