CITRUS growers have welcomed Japan's move to allow imports of Australian grapefruit from non-fruit fly free areas.
Until now Australia has only been able to export grapefruit that is sourced from fruit fly pest free areas to Japan.
The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, agreed to the new trading arrangements, after Australian research relating to cold disinfestations treatment and bio security measures convinced them the risk of fruit flies would be adequately managed.
Citrus Australia Ltd chief executive officer Judith Damiani said the exciting development was a testament to government and industry’s commitment to gaining market access for cold-treated grapefruit into Japan.
“Citrus Australia representatives, in particular our red grapefruit grower members, WA disinfestation researcher, Horticulture Australia Ltd, and the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry are to be congratulated on their combined effort,” Ms Damiani said.
The industry has been developing its niche product mix in anticipation of improved access to Japan.
Sweeter red grapefruit varieties and growers in central, western and northern Australia will be the major beneficiaries with export orders set for the new season early next year.
“We estimate that over the next 5 years, with increased production and market development strategies, export volumes should peak around 4,000 tonnes valued at $4.8 million annually – a great export earner for the Australian economy,” Ms Damiani said.
“This is great news for Citrus Australia members, as well, whose support for us enables on-going lobbying and advice to government on export market access,” she said.
