THE FIRST shipment of Queensland mangoes bound for Japan has left Australian shores.
Queensland Department of Primary Industries said mango company, Manbulloo, exported its first mangoes this week.
DPI principal extension horticulturist, Terry Campbell, said demand for Queensland mangoes in the Japanese market was expected to be strong this season and this first shipment wass an exciting boost for Queensland exports.
"Three years of persistent effort by Manbulloo and the Queensland Government to establish this Japanese export supply chain has been rewarded with a successful season and opportunities to grow the market," Mr Campbell said.
"While this will be the first delivery of the season, it will be followed by weekly shipments which will continue until the end of the season in early next year," Mr Campbell said.
"Japan is a lucrative market willing to pay a premium price for the high quality and superior flavour of Queensland mangoes.
"Japan currently imports around 12,000 tonnes of mangoes, mangosteens and guavas worldwide, valued at approximately $40 million annually.
"We are monitoring the first shipment to ensure that optimum handling systems are maintained throughout the supply chain and the premium reputation and quality of Queensland mangoes is upheld."
Manbulloo managing director, Marie Piccone, recently visited Japan to build the company’s relationship with new business partners abroad and to plan the export schedule.
