A launch event to celebrate the official start of the Tasmanian cherries season was held on January 8 in Taipei, before the Lunar New Year celebrations.
The event brought together key representatives from the Tasmanian cherry industry, Fruit Growers Tasmania, Cherry Growers Australia, and Austrade, along with Taiwanese importers and buyers.
Peter Cornish, CEO of Fruit Growers Tasmania and president of Cherry Growers Australia, gave a presentation at the event.
“I am pleased to participate in this important event,” said Cornish. “This is the first time Tasmania has participated in a national event promoting the cherry season to importers and buyers. Tasmania grows the best cherries in the world, and Taiwan is a very important market for us, with 22% of the state's cherry exports destined for Taiwanese customers.”
In Taiwan, large red cherries are the preferred gift during Lunar New Year celebrations, as they symbolize happiness and prosperity and are considered a gesture of good luck that strengthens family bonds.
“Thanks to Tasmania's relatively pest-free status, growers are not required to treat the fruit before export. This means that cherries arrive ripe, fresh, and ready to eat within 48-72 hours of picking. Not many regions can say the same,” added Cornish.
“Moreover, in Tasmania we grow exceptional cherries: our cool maritime climate and long, slow growing seasons ensure that our fruit develops an unparalleled depth of flavor.”
The event also featured a speech by Tasmania's Premier, Jeremy Rockliff, and a discussion between local importers and Tasmanian cherry growers about the future growth of the market. In addition, official guests were able to taste the first Tasmanian cherries of the season.
“Our growers appreciate the continued support they receive from their importers and retailers in Taiwan, and this event is partly to thank them for all their efforts,” said Cornish. “A big thank you also goes to our growers, who continue to work hard to advance Tasmania’s cherry exports and to enhance the profile of Australian fruit in global markets.”
As part of the event, a marketing video for the Tasmanian Grown Cherry campaign was shown, highlighting the high quality of Tasmania's cherries, focusing on their large size, distinctive flavor, and vibrant color.
Source: Fruitnet
Image: Fruitnet
21 Jun 2024
The company uses a range of electrical equipment, including anti-freeze fans, irrigation pumps and vehicles, all powered by a 23 kW solar system and a 105 kWh battery, as well as by New Zealand's high-intensity renewable electricity grid.
29 Apr 2024
Cherries Glamour bridges a critical 'production window' between the hemispheres. With the Spanish season running from April to August, and the southern hemisphere season running from November to February, Cherries Glamour offers cherries when they are not globally available.
02 Apr 2025
Thermal imaging is an innovative method to monitor water stress in 'Regina' cherry trees. Optimising irrigation, improving water management and reducing water wastage, without compromising productivity and fruit quality.
02 Apr 2025
Gene Drive could revolutionise biological control of Drosophila suzukii, the red-eyed midge that threatens cherry trees and small fruits. Find out how this advanced biotechnology could lead to the collapse of the pest's population.
