Japan trade negotiations a grape success

Japan is now able to enjoy all of Australia’s table grapes with the lifting of varietal restrictions following the successful completion of technical market access negotiations.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Murray Watt said this was a positive outcome for the Australian table grape industry, providing greater export opportunities to a priority market for Australia.

“Japan is Australia’s second-largest market for agriculture, forestry, and fisheries products and a valuable market for premium Australian fresh fruit,” Minister Watt said.

“Previously, Australia has been limited to exporting only three varieties of table grapes to Japan, resulting in significant market value loss.

“The lifting of these restrictions is an important development for the industry as Japan is a stable and sophisticated market providing long term growth opportunities.

“Industry experts estimate that the expanded variety access will grow by approximately $30 million, reaching $50 million over the next few years.

“Removing the varietal restrictions for mangoes and now table grapes has broader trade benefits for the Australian horticulture industry.

“It represents a positive step forward towards the agriculture industry’s goal of $100 billion by 2030.

“We have a strong trading relationship with Japan, I look forward to continuing to work together to deliver further market access gains which are mutually beneficial for both countries.”

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