Australian businesses selling globally face more than 3 barriers to making it work, topped by tariff uncertainty on their products or services.

The recent survey conducted by Shopify has highlighted the challenges and strategies of Australian businesses engaged in cross-border selling. According to the findings, 83% of Australian businesses plan to continue growing their international sales. However, of the 3.4 barriers on average they face, the most common is tariffs (39%), followed by currency exchange volatility (30%), complicated customs procedures (29%), limited access to reliable logistics or shipping partners (28%), and language or cultural differences (27%).

In response to tariff impacts, businesses have adopted various strategies. Shopify research noted various strategies to mitigate the effects include raising prices for international customers (51%), Switching suppliers or manufacturing partners (40%), and absorbing tariff costs without major changes (39%).

Business leaders also expressed a desire for changes to facilitate cross-border selling. When asked if they could change one thing to make cross-border selling easier, business leaders called for streamlined customs and tax procedures (20%), more affordable marketing and advertising (20%), better payment options for international customers (18%), and simpler shipping and returns (16%), according to Shopify research.

The survey also identified the toughest challenges for international expansion. When it comes to making the jump to international expansion, the toughest challenges businesses faced included: Managing shipping and delivery across borders (43%), Navigating international regulations and customs (33%), Building trust with international customers (33%), Finding and reaching customers in other countries (31%), Handling payments and currency exchange (26%).

Despite these challenges, Australian businesses remain optimistic about international growth. Shopify research highlighted only 2% expect a decline in their international sales. The top motivators for continuing to pursue international sales include stronger demand from international customers (62%, the highest among all markets surveyed), plans to invest more in international sales such as marketing, staff and partners (60%) and plans to expand into new international markets (53).

The survey included over 500 Australian business owners and senior decision-makers. Conducted from 22nd August to 31st August 2025, it included businesses that focus on selling products and have at least part of their sales conducted online.