Aussie horticulture is headed for the world stage next week with more than 40 Australian exhibitors set to show off their produce at the industry’s flagship tradeshow, Asia Fruit Logistica (AFL) in Hong Kong.

The AFL tradeshow offers participants the opportunity to promote their businesses, make new top-level trade contacts and gather essential market information on every aspect of the fresh produce trade throughout Asia.

Growers and supply chain representatives from the avocado, citrus, table grape, and summerfruit industries will be showcased at Hort Innovation’s stand under the national Grown in Good Nature banner.

Developed in close consultation with industry, Hort Innovation’s Grown in Good Nature brand brings to life how Australia’s good nature – in both geography and personality – empowers us to grow the greatest, freshest produce in the world.

Hort Innovation chief executive officer Brett Fifield said driving international demand for Australian horticulture is a key priority for Hort Innovation.

“Export growth has never been more important for the sector, with most industries identifying enhancing and diversifying export markets as a priority,” Mr Fifield said. “Asia Fruit Logistica provides an unparalleled opportunity for our exporting industries to promote Australia’s high-quality produce on a world stage.”

Citrus Australia chief executive officer Nathan Hancock said developing new, emerging and existing international markets is essential for the growth of the citrus industry.

“Access to international markets is an integral part of making sure our growers can remain profitable, which is why the citrus industry invests grower levies into trade-related initiatives such as market development and attending events such as AFL,” Mr Hancock said.

Greg Asta of citrus grower-packer-marketer AC Foods-Suntreat said his company looks forward to seeing how its produce resonates with attendees at AFL this year.

“We see benefits in promoting our products at AFL and meeting new and existing customers. AFL provides a unique opportunity to meet a large number of customers in a short amount of time,” Mr Asta said.

“Operating under the Grown in Good Nature brand gives our business an opportunity to highlight the benefits of being an Australian company, selling premium quality Australian-grown fruit.”

During 2022/23, Hort Innovation’s Grown in Good Nature brand has:

• Promoted seven Australian horticulture industries in overseas markets including apple, avocado, cherry, citrus, pear, summerfruit and table grape.
• Appeared in 10 countries, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Vietnam.
• Participated in four international trade shows, including AFL, Gulfood, Japan Supermarket Tradeshow and SIAL China, and hosted two trade missions (avocados to Middle East and table grapes to India).

Hort Innovation’s Grown in Good Nature activities are underpinned by more than $154M in direct cash investments in international trade initiatives, with significant in-kind from our partners, including the recently announced cash and in-kind partnership valued at $130M Fresh and Secure Trade Alliance (FASTA) which you can read more about at www.horticulture.com.au/fasta.

Media contact: Kelly Vorst-Parkes | 0427 142 537 | kelly.vorst-parkes@horticulture.com.au