The berry industries faced challenges managing domestic market saturation and developing international trade. The process of obtaining new market access is complex and lengthy and requires clear plans, specific R&D objectives, and pathways for application.

The separate berry industries had not previously collaborated in an explicitly trade-focused investment, and prior to this project, negligible work had been undertaken to secure market access. This lack of coordinated, trade-focused investment meant that berry growers struggled with market stability and export growth.

To address the challenges, the project focused on five key areas: export readiness and capacity building, trade development and market access, risk management, communication, and collaborative partnerships.

The project successfully developed clear and prioritised market access plans with specific research and development objectives, and pathways to pursue market access applications with Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Exporters received advice and assistance to grow their international business, stabilising the domestic market, and creating a well-educated, export-focused cohort.

Additionally, the project enhanced trade literacy through broad industry communications and established an Export Hub with comprehensive resources for new and existing exporters. This facilitated informed participation in export supply chains.

The project developed a clear market access plan, increasing the berry industry’s export knowledge and fostering a well-educated, export-focused cohort. This led to the stabilisation of the domestic market and the advancement of market access for each berry category. ‘Export curious’ growers were encouraged to understand the requirements of participating in export supply chains to grow their business.

The Export Hub is a valuable, ongoing resource for new and existing exporters, enhancing trade literacy and participation. Collaboration between the three berry industries improved resource management and expertise sharing, resulting in efficient and effective market access efforts and overall industry benefits.

Although no new market access was granted during the project, the groundwork laid out clear, actionable plans and objectives that will drive future market access efforts, ensuring long-term industry growth and stability.