China

Australia’s position as a major exporter of in-demand resources and potential player in the value-chain of renewable energy seems assured at least in the short to medium-term. The same applies to premium consumer goods.
Continued evolution of areas of cooperation in less sensitive areas of mutual interest are likely to receive significant investment from the Chinese side.

Japan

Securing Japan’s energy future will remain a significant focus for outbound investment. We expect to see an acceleration of investment in traditional renewables (e.g. solar and wind) as well as hydrogen and ammonia.

Korea

In January 2023, President Yoon emphasised that renewable and green energy sources, such as nuclear power and green hydrogen, will bolster energy security as well as achieve carbon neutrality goals at the World Economic Forum summit in Davos.

Korea is looking to Australia as not only a source of hydrogen and critical minerals required for batteries, but also for new products such as clean ammonia and green steel. Australia is looking to Korea as a leader in technology and as a source of capital to help launch new energy ventures.

Korean businesses are looking to establish supply chains for green hydrogen and critical minerals as Korea works to reduce its traditional reliance on hydrocarbon generation.

Singapore

ESG considerations will continue to drive M&A activity as businesses transition towards sustainable energy solutions in Singapore. Hydrogen technologies and carbon capture and storage, both areas in which Australia has growing capabilities, will be areas of interest for Singaporean investors.

Japan

The trend for investment in Australia in the real estate sector, both commercial and residential, will continue to be driven by stable yields from commercial properties, the general robustness of the Australian economy and continued population growth in Australia.

Korea

In July 2022, President Yoon's newly unveiled five-year economic plan focused (amongst other agendas) on achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, encouraging investment in electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure.

Singapore

We saw continued investment in the Australian real-estate sector (including commercial developments and student accommodation) from Singaporean private investors, as well as its sovereign wealth fund, GIC. Singaporean investors also demonstrated interest in businesses offering technology and cyber solutions, including AI, fintech, data protection and blockchain.

Malaysia

The Malaysian construction industry is anticipated to grow 6.2% annually between 2023 and 2026, supported by large scale transport and energy projects and favorable Government policy.

China

In China, easy wins may be in the tourism and educations sectors which are positioned for growth following the return of Chinese students to Australia in coming months.

Singapore

Cyber security is expected to be a focus in 2023, as is education. Australian universities are a popular destination for Singaporean students, and any Australian industry or business which provides investors with exposure to that market will continue to be of interest to Singaporean investors.