Cherry Growers Australia reports exports up 43% at end of season, thanks in part to India partnership

All Australian states have recorded an increase in cherry export volumes compared to last season, according to an end-of-season webinar to update growers and exporters. The event, organised by Cherry Growers Australia (CGA), also highlighted the promise of Australian cherries in the Indian market.

Director and senior analyst Wayne Prowse celebrated the increase in the country's exports this season, but pointed out that they are still not 100 per cent. 

"The country has recorded a 43% increase in exports this 2023-2024 season," Prowse said. "Although 43% is exciting growth and the last two years have been much worse, as you all know, exceeding 4,000 tonnes was good. But it is still not the long-term growth needed to return to 2017-2020 levels."

Tasmania accounted for 54% of total cherry exports with 2,207 tonnes, followed by Victoria with 1,449 tonnes and a 35% share.  In third place, New South Wales recorded a 136% increase, but still only accounted for 7% of the total harvest. 

Hong Kong and China are the country's largest importers, followed by Taiwan, Vietnam and Singapore. The Australian season overlaps with that of Chile, the world's largest cherry exporter, with 94% of the crop going to China, the world's largest cherry importer. 

Chile dominates many important markets when it comes to cherries; however, Australia is the market leader in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Hong Kong imported 54% of Australia's cherries this season.

The Indian market

Yemee Fernandes, of Four Pillars Trading Australia, spoke about the partnership between Australia and India. The Australia-India Economic and Trade Cooperation Agreement (ECTA), signed in April 2022, provided Australian producers with access to the Indian market and the opportunity to diversify exports. 

Fernandes spoke of the country's diversity and connectivity and cited the success of Australian macadamia nuts in India. With the reduction of Indian import tariffs on macadamia nuts from 32 per cent to 21.4 per cent, a number that is expected to be reduced to zero by 2029, Australia has seen more success in the category. 

According to the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, macadamia nuts have grown to become Australia's third largest horticultural export by value. According to the organisation, the value of macadamia nut exports increased from A$116 million in 2012-13 to A$318 million in 2021-22. Exports have increased mainly due to China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and the United States. 

During the event for cherry growers, the new CGA president, Alison Jones, also shared information on the export guide available to members. The guide will provide information on training new staff and market entry options, updated annually.

Source: PressNewsAgency

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