Market Highlights:
- Australia has the third highest vehicle ownership rate in the world with over 600 vehicles per 1,000 people.
- Growth in Australia’s aftermarket has averaged over 5 percent over the past ten years. The aftermarket for replacement parts and accessories is estimated to be worth approximately USD 5 billion for replacement parts and USD 6 billion for accessories and is split fairly evenly between local producers and imports.
- The United States is the leading supplier of automotive parts and accessories to Australia, accounting for 23.64 percent of imports or USD 494 million.
- It is anticipated that the slowdown of new car sales as a result of the world economic crisis will have a positive impact on the aftermarket industries as more consumers look to improve and repair their existing motor vehicles.
Trade Leads/Best Prospects
The Australian automotive industry provides good opportunities for U.S. suppliers of both specialty aftermarket equipment as well as the necessary aftermarket parts such as: 4WD parts and accessories; street performance parts and accessories; carburators; mobile electronics; suspension; transmission and ignition products; lubricants and fuel pumps; body repair kits and products. In general, high-quality, innovative, and competitively priced parts and accessories are always in demand.
Potential Australian Automotive Company Trade Leads:
- Company seeking brand new Cadillac SUVs and Dodge Ram Trucks in any color.
- Company wants plastic molded drawer systems for fitment in the back of 4WD, station wagons and utility vehicles.
- Company looking for general 60s and 70s restoration parts.
- Company interested in a cheaper line of car wash, car polish and a cutting compound.
- Company in search of automotive tuning and diagnostic equipment.
- Company seeking cast pistons, forged pistons, ARP fasteners, engine bearings and piston rings.
- Company wants windscreens or any automotive glass manufacturers on the West Coast.
For more information on the Australian automotive market, please contact:
Melanie Heskin
Commercial Specialist
U.S. Commercial Specialist - Melbourne, Australia
Phone: 61-3-9526-5924
Fax: 61-3-9526-4660
melanie.heskin@mail.doc.gov