The Australian Food and Wine Collaboration Group will visit Tokyo to enhance trade relations and explore export opportunities for Australia's horticultural sector, focusing on fresh produce. This initiative marks the group's sixth target market, following engagements in Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Taiwan. The group, comprising Hort Innovation, Dairy Australia, Wine Australia, Meat & Livestock Australia, and Seafood Industry Australia, has interacted with over 1,000 representatives from food, trade, and government sectors to advance export access and reinforce Australia's reputation for quality produce.
Japan, valued at $6.3 billion in 2023–24 as Australia's third-largest market for agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, is a key destination for Australian horticulture, ranking fourth for fresh fruit and vegetable exports. Dr. Mila Bristow, General Manager of Trade and Biosecurity R&D at Hort Innovation, noted Japan's role as a counter-seasonal partner. "From July to November, Japan has significant domestic production, but during their off-season, our fruit industries have a strong opportunity to supply high-quality produce," Dr. Bristow stated.
The group's activities in Tokyo will include the Taste the Wonders of Australia market activation event on April 9, featuring industry roundtables, food workshops, and a gala dinner for over 100 buyers and stakeholders. This initiative is part of the Australian Government's Agriculture Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) grants program, with funding extending through 2025–26.
Source: Hort Innovation