The Australia-China bilateral relationship is based on strong economic and trade complementarities and longstanding community and cultural links. China is Australia’s largest two-way trading partner, and the importance is reflected by the value of trade.   

While Australia’s horticultural trade with China presents significant opportunities, it also faces challenges such as market competition, regulatory complexities, and geopolitical tensions. Rising competition from other exporting countries, fluctuations in exchange rates, and geopolitical factors can impact trade dynamics.

Rising incomes, urbanisation, and e-commerce platforms are also increasing demand for fresh food. The factors driving Chinese consumers to purchase imported fresh horticulture include:

• Perceived quality and safety
• Variety and exclusivity
• Health benefits and nutritional value
• Status and prestige
• Marketing and branding.

Australian top 10 levy-funded commodity exports (volume in tonnage, year ending February 2024)  

1. Table grape – 60,727 tonnes
2. Almond (all) – 39,323 tonnes
3. Macadamia (all) – 22,429 tonnes
4. Orange – 20,218 tonnes
5. Mandarin (including tangerine and satsuma) – 15,412 tonnes
6. Cherry – 582 tonnes
7. Onion (all) – 176 tonnes
8. Mango (including guavas) – 77 tonnes
9. Apple – 68 tonnes
10. Asparagus - 13 tonnes

Commodities with market access

Almond
Asparagus
Cherry
Citrus
Lettuce
Macadamias
Mango
Onion
Summerfruit
Table grape
Tasmanian apples

China is the highest export location for Australian fruit, nuts and vegetables

Year ending February 2024

Useful links

• See more export facts and figures in Hort Innovation’s 2022/23 Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook here
• Gain insights into international consumers for 13 of Australia’s priority export markets here
• See how key Aussie export stakeholders and authorities are joining forces to help protect and grow Australia’s horticultural exports with the Fresh and Secure Trade Alliance (FASTA) here
• Access the Hort IQ International Consumer Needs dashboard here
• Access the Austrade Go Global toolkit here

See also

Australia's top ten trade horticultural commodities here