The Australian Horticultural Exporters Association (AHEA) has teamed up with Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) to release a new brochure showcasing the country’s leading fresh produce exports.
The Horticulture Industry Capability Statement was launched today (27 November), after more than 12 months of consultation between the two agencies and various industry groups.
Michelle Christoe, executive director of AHEA, said the statement highlights the wide variety of export-ready produce grown in Australia, which currently ships over 90 fresh fruit and vegetable lines to more than 60 countries across the globe.
“This Export Capability Statement provides an overview of Australian capabilities across a range of horticultural products,” Christoe explained. “It includes information on seasonal availability, packaging, transport and the best months of the year to contact suppliers to ensure orders can be met.”
Christoe said Australian fresh fruit exports have topped A$622m (US$530m) in 2014, with citrus and table grapes accounting for a combined 72 per cent of this value.
Fresh vegetable exports were valued at A$168m (US$143m) for the 12 months ending June 2014, an increase of 7 per cent on the previous year. Trade volume dropped 13 percent, however, this was heavily skewed by a 32 per cent decline in the onion trade, after a challenging season with production. Onions, carrots, potatoes and asparagus continue to be Australia’s leading vegetable exports by volume, accounting for 73 per cent of the trade.
Philippa Dawson, general manager of trade at Austrade, said the release of the statement could not have been timelier for the Australian industry.
“The recent conclusion to negotiations on free trade agreements with some of Australia’s key trading partners, and growing demand in the region for high quality fresh produce, means it is an ideal time to be promoting Australia’s fruit and vegetables,” she said. “Austrade is delighted to have worked with AHEA and the wider horticulture sector to create the Industry Capability Report, which showcases Australia’s strengths as a premium producer to potential customers.”
