Citrus Australia has expressed its disappointment at the United States' decision to impose a 10 per cent tariff on Australian citrus exports, warning that the move disregards decades of mutually beneficial trade and harms both Australian growers and U.S. consumers.
"For many years, our citrus trade with the United States has delivered consistent, high-quality fruit to American consumers while supporting sustainable jobs and growth in Australia," said Citrus Australia CEO Nathan Hancock. "This tariff disrupts that balance. Australian and U.S. businesses that have developed 12-month supply chains are now questioning how shoppers in the United States will react."
© Citrus Australia
Citrus Australia's stance aligns with that of the National Farmers' Federation (NFF), which has also voiced deep disappointment over the tariff decision and the negative message it sends to global trading partners.
Echoing the NFF's strong position, Hancock said Australian citrus growers are being caught in the crossfire of trade politics despite operating to the highest standards and supplying premium fruit to global markets.
"Australia is better positioned than many competitors to adapt to market shifts, but the tariff will likely cause broader global supply distortions," Hancock said. "When barriers go up, markets respond. Our competitors may divert their exports to Asia, increasing pressure on those markets. It's a ripple effect, and no one wins."
"As we did during the last round of global trade tensions, we will focus on diversifying markets, and we will be working closely with government to access any support measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Minister for Trade."
The tariff is set to take effect from midnight, April 5, 2025, in the United States. Citrus Australia is committed to supporting growers and exporters during this period and will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves.
For more information:
Sarah C Porter
Citrus Australia
Tel: +61 (0) 438 358 787
Email: sarah.porter@citrusaustralia.com.au
www.citrusaustralia.com.au