The European Union has recognised mainland Australia as free from citrus canker, in a major boost for Australia's A$190m citrus export industry.
The move follows a decision by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in October last year to also recognise Australia as citrus canker free.
The decisions mean citrus exported from Australia to the EU and UAE no longer needs costly disinfectant treatment for the disease.
Citrus Australia Ltd CEO Judith Damiani said it was welcome news for the industry to finally be recognised globally as canker free.
"In 2009 the UAE was our fifth-largest export destination valued at A$11.4m. In the same twelve months Australian citrus exports to the EU were valued at just over A$4m," Ms Damiani said.
"More importantly we can reduce unnecessary costs to become even more internationally competitive."
Australian minister for agriculture, fisheries and forestry, Tony Burke, said any boost to agricultural exports would help strengthen regional economies.
"The citrus industry is an important part of many regional economies, including in the Riverland in South Australia, Murray Valley in New South Wales and Victoria, the Riverina in New South Wales and the Central Burnett region in Queensland," Mr Burke said.
"This news will be particularly welcome at this time, as growers prepare for the new citrus exporting season.
"We saw the devastating impact of citrus canker on the Queensland industry in 2004 and the industry has worked hard with the Australian Government to eradicate the disease."
The EU Standing Committee reinstated its prior recognition of Queensland as free from the disease, and added the Northern Territory and Western Australia to the list of approved areas.
The states of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia were already recognised as being free of citrus canker.
