Aussie produce to be showcased on the world stage

Aussie horticulture is headed for the world stage this week with over 40 Australian exhibitors set to show off their produce at Asia Fruit Logistica (AFL) in Hong Kong.

Hort Innovation’s stand under the national Grown in Good Nature banner will showcase growers and supply chain representatives from the avocado, citrus, table grape and summerfruit industries.

Developed in close consultation with industry, Hort Innovation’s Grown in Good Nature brand focuses on how Australia’s good nature empowers the nation to grow fresh produce.

Brett Fifield, Hort Innovation Chief Executive Officer, said a key priority for Hort Innovation is driving international demand for Australian horticulture.

According to Fifield, export growth is more important than ever for the sector, with most industries identifying it as a priority. AFL provides an opportunity for exporting industries to promote Australian produce on the world stage.

“Access to international markets is an integral part of making sure our growers can remain profitable, which is why the citrus industry invests grower levies into trade-related initiatives such as market development and attending events such as AFL,” said Citrus Australia Chief Executive Officer Nathan Hancock.

Greg Asta of AC Foods-Suntreat said the company sees the benefits in promoting products at AFL and meeting new and existing customers.

“Operating under the Grown in Good Nature brand gives our business an opportunity to highlight the benefits of being an Australian company, selling premium quality Australian-grown fruit,” Asta said.

During 2022/23, Hort Innovation’s Grown in Good Nature brand has:

• promoted Australian apple, avocado, cherry, citrus, pear, summerfruit and table grape industries;
• appeared in 10 countries, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Vietnam;
• participated in four international trade shows, including AFL, Gulfood, Japan Supermarket Tradeshow and SIAL China, and hosted two trade missions (avocados to the Middle East and table grapes to India).