Queensland horticulture growers are invited to explore current trends, key challenges, and upcoming opportunities at the Queensland Horticulture Export Congress.
Presented by peak industry body for Queensland horticulture, Growcom in partnership with AUSVEG and the Queensland Government, the Queensland Horticulture Export Congress will be held in conjunction with Hort Connections on Tuesday 8 June at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Growcom CEO Stephen Barnard said the Queensland Horticulture Export Congress would target exporting Queensland growers and export-interested growers providing an update on the latest Queensland export landscape, COVID disruptions and opportunities for export capability development.
“Disruptions brought about by COVID-19 over the past 12 months have added to the complexities many growers face when trying to service their international markets,” Mr Barnard said.
“Queensland horticulture is a $2.9 billion industry. It is important that we support exporters with as many tools as possible if agriculture is to continue to act as the cornerstone of Queensland’s economic recovery from COVID-19.
“I encourage all growers to come along to this free event to hear directly from experts in the space and build their export resilience.”
AUSVEG National Manager – Export Development Michael Coote said that Queensland is a major exporting state for fresh produce.
“Over 12% of Australia’s total annual fresh produce exports originated from Queensland in 2019/20. This equated to 97,288 tonnes with an export value of $335 million of fresh fruits and vegetables destined for international markets,” Mr Coote said.
“The Queensland Horticulture Export Congress is a great opportunity for Queensland’s fruit and vegetable exporters to come together for an update on Queensland’s horticultural trade performance during COVID, understand freight and logistics challenges exporters are facing, and hear experiences from exporting Queensland growers on how they have dealt with the disrupted trading environment.”
At this time of change it is important that industry not only supports exporters but celebrates their work.
Growcom will also be hosting the Queensland Horticulture Export Dinner directly following the Export Congress as an opportunity to showcase the Queensland horticulture industry and celebrate our export achievements.
“The Export Awards provide an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of the industry’s leaders and for the wider industry to celebrate the best and brightest in the field,” Mr Barnard said.
Two Export Awards to be presented on the night of the dinner – Queensland Horticulture Exporter of the Year and New Exporter Award.
For more information: growcom.com.au