Take action now against non-compliant imports – by Neil Clout

Australian markets are being flooded with non-compliant products that threaten both consumers and manufacturers alike. Here Neil Clout argues that weak regulations, rarely enforced are eroding Australia’s industrial and skills base.

In the vast landscape of global commerce, the competition is fierce, and the stakes are high. For Australian manufacturers, the challenges are particularly daunting.

While they strive to maintain high-quality standards and comply with stringent regulations, a growing concern lurks in the shadows – non-compliant products flooding the market.

These unscrupulous products not only endanger consumers but also create an unfair advantage against local manufacturing, pushing our homegrown industries to the brink of extinction.

Australia has a well-deserved reputation for its commitment to safety and quality in manufacturing.

Local businesses invest heavily in research, development, and adherence to rigorous regulatory standards.

However, this dedication to quality and safety becomes a handicap when non-compliant products from overseas enter the market.

These products, often produced at lower costs by flouting regulations, undercut local manufacturers on price, drawing consumers towards seemingly cheaper alternatives.

The problem is not merely a matter of economics – it extends to the heart of public safety.

Non-compliant products may lack the safety measures, quality controls, and ethical standards that Australian manufacturers uphold.

From electrical appliances to children’s toys, these substandard imports jeopardise the well-being of Australian citizens. Moreover, consumers may unknowingly purchase these products, believing them to be safe due to a misplaced trust in the market.

While regulatory agencies such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) do their best to monitor and restrict the entry of non-compliant products, the sheer volume and diversity of these items make enforcement an uphill battle.

Even when detected, the penalties imposed on rogue manufacturers are often insufficient to act as a deterrent. Thus, the problem persists, perpetuating an uneven playing field for local manufacturers.

The consequences of this unfair advantage against local manufacturing are profound.

First and foremost, it endangers the livelihoods of thousands of Australians who work in these industries.

As cheaper, non-compliant products gain ground, local manufacturers struggle to compete, leading to downsizing, layoffs, and, in some cases, business closures. This erodes the fabric of local communities and leaves skilled workers unemployed.

Furthermore, the erosion of Australian manufacturing has significant implications for national security.

Relying heavily on imported goods makes the nation vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, as seen during the Covid-19 pandemic when critical medical supplies and equipment became scarce.

A strong domestic manufacturing base is crucial for Australia’s resilience and self-sufficiency in times of crisis.

So, what can be done to level the playing field and protect Australian manufacturing? It’s imperative that we take a multi-pronged approach to tackle this issue:

Strengthen Regulatory Enforcement: The ACCC and other regulatory bodies must be adequately funded and empowered to crack down on non-compliant products rigorously. Heavier fines and penalties for those who knowingly bring substandard goods into the country are necessary to serve as a deterrent.

Raise Awareness: The public must be educated about the dangers of non-compliant products and the importance of supporting local manufacturers. Consumers can play a pivotal role in driving demand for quality, ethically-produced goods.

Support Local Industries: Governments at all levels should incentivize local manufacturing through grants, tax breaks, and subsidies. Encouraging investment in innovation and technology can help Australian businesses compete on quality and efficiency.

International Cooperation: Australia should collaborate with its international counterparts to strengthen global supply chain security and standards. By working together to root out non-compliant products at their source, we can reduce their flow into our market.

Transparency and Accountability: E-commerce platforms and marketplaces must also take responsibility for the products they host. Implementing strict vetting processes and holding sellers accountable for the goods they offer can help curb the influx of non-compliant products.

To preserve the integrity of Australian manufacturing, we must take immediate action through stricter enforcement of regulations, public awareness campaigns, and support for local industries.

Only through a collective effort can we ensure a level playing field that allows Australian manufacturers to thrive and continue contributing to our nation’s prosperity.

Neil Clout has more than 20 years in manufacturing in telecommunications/data & power assemblies. Neil is based in Sydney, where he is Director at Execab Custom Cables Pty Ltd.

Picture: Neil Clout