The Australian state of Victoria has launched a pilot programme to extend market access for apple, pear, stonefruit, grape and cherry exports.
Focusing on China and Thailand, the Victorian government’s new programme has been endorsed by federal minister for agriculture Barnaby Joyce as well as other state and territory ministers.
“With Victoria’s horticulture industry accounting for more than half of Australia’s horticulture exports, it is critical that we continue to advocate for the interests of our thriving industry at a national level,” Victoria’s minster for agriculture Jaala Pulford said in a press release.
The pilot programme has been launched in addition to the A$5.2m set aside for specialised trade unit to support trade negotiations and address trade barriers, announced in the 2015/16 state budget.
