Citrus growers seek US market access to boost exports
Australian citrus growers are seeking greater access to the US market, with thousands of tonnes of mandarins harvested in Queensland each year but unable to be exported due to current restrictions. The industry body estimates that 30 per cent of Australia's total citrus production area is currently excluded from exporting to the US, resulting in a potential loss of up to $150 million per year.
Australian citrus growers are pushing for greater access to the US market, with thousands of tonnes of mandarins harvested in Queensland each year but unable to be exported due to current restrictions.
The current rules allow citrus exports to the US only from areas that have held fruit fly-free status for a long time, including parts of South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria. However, this leaves around 30 per cent of Australia's total citrus production area unable to export to the US, resulting in a potential loss of up to $150 million per year.
Industry body seeks change
Nathan Hancock, chief executive officer of Citrus Australia, said that expanding export opportunities would allow growers to find more premium markets throughout the world.