The free trade agreement announced this past weekend between the USA and Australia is good for AFANA and footy. Here's why:
When AFANA left the merchandise business a few years ago, one of the contributing causes was the difficulty in importing merchandise from Australia. While some organizations skirt the law by importing under an individual's name or use other tricks as a cover such as having people "bring" their merchandise in when travel between the countries, we did not.
As our volume grew, we found the same problems those who preceded us did. The tariffs, duties, and customs delays on imports of clothing, leather products including footballs, and manufactured goods (AFL licensed key chains, mugs, etc.) was adding significantly to the difficulties of doing business. If this FTA is ratified by both countries, then almost all of that, save the post Sept. 11th security measures, goes away.
Regardless of whether AFANA ever gets back into that business in a big way, it's good news for footy fans. Import is about to get a whole lot easier. More footy related products for fans here and at cheaper prices. The lack of customs barriers will encourage other potential vendors to get into the business even if we don't. Movement of personel between Australian and American offices of businesses will be easier, too.
It's good news for the AFL and it's member clubs. No longer will the import/export laws in both countries as an excuse not to do business here. One more barrier removed.
Lot's of problems still exist in dealing with sales of AFL licensed products in the US and Canada. One problem though is about to get reduced by 99%.
-Rob (anyone want to buy a used football?)
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