Tasmanian cherries will be exported to Japan under a new system in December after Japanese authorities agreed to a new quarantine protocol that will see the fruit bypass pre-export fumigation treatment.
The move is expected to generate 'millions of additional export dollars', according to Tasmanian and Australian MPs.
Fumigation was previously required to ensure the control of codling moth, with growers concerned that the process reduced the shelf-life of cherries. However, a new compliance programme has now been developed to control the pest in Tasmanian orchards.
David Llewellyn, minister for primary industries and water in Tasmania, said that cherry exports were crucial to the state. 'High quality food with an emphasis on less chemical use in production is the way that many markets are heading, and Tasmania is keeping at the forefront of this technology.
'This is a significant boost not only for our cherry export industry, but also for our reputation for meeting the demands of ever-changing market conditions,' he added.
Tasmanian cherry exports are expected to reach A$34m in value over the next five years.
