Australian mainland apple exports will soon be available to China, enabling growers to meet an ongoing international demand
The signing of a new biosecurity protocol will allow Australian mainland apples to be exported to China, commencing in the 2026 season.
The landmark agreement, signed by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the General Administration of Customs, China, marks a pivotal step forward for Australian apple growers seeking to expand their international export footprint.
Hort Innovation says this new market access presents an opportunity to tap into China’s strong demand for premium, high-quality imported fresh fruit.
It builds on the foundations already established by Tasmania, where growers have been successfully exporting to China since 2010.
Apple growers have already been exporting more than 2,500 tonnes of apples to international markets, according to Hort Innovation, however this new agreement has the potential to open up a large opportunity.
Hort Innovation adds Chinese consumers have a well-established preference for branded, high-quality fruit with exceptional freshness and flavour, to which this deal will support.
Signing of this protocol was supported by Hort Innovation and the Apple and Pear research and development levy projects: Apple and Pear Trade Development and Market Access Program (AP23003) and Apple & Pear Market Access & Trade Development Project (AP21001).
Both projects have been focused on expanding market access, increasing engagement and understanding of trade, educating international markets about Australian apples and pears, export capability, competitiveness education for growers, as well as ensuring the industry is ready to act swiftly if new markets open.