THE first direct shipment of Australian table grapes has landed safely in China.
The container of crimson seedless grapes from Bruno Moras's Nangolic Colignan Farms arrived in Shenzhen this week and was given the all clear by 10 officers from the Shenzhen Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau of the People's Republic of China.
The grapes reached fruit stands the following day.
Australian Table Grape Association chairman Nick Muraca, who travelled to Shenzhen for the arrival of the shipping container of 1800 10kg boxes, said it had taken six years and a lot of money and research to finally break into the world's biggest market.
''We had to convince the Chinese that we have rigorous system-based management processes that will prevent any incursion of pest or disease into China,'' he said.
''Witnessing the first consignment arriving and being given the approval by CIQ was a proud moment for me and the table grape industry.''
ATGA chief executive Jeff Scott said he hoped access for Australian table grapes would pave the way for other commodities.
