Australian trade will boost its export reach through the Australian Government’s new Trade Diversification Network (TDN), with the Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA) helping drive horticulture market opportunities.
The ATGA is excited to continue its efforts strengthening Australian horticulture’s export diversification, following its acceptance into the TDN under the Australian Government’s $50 million Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI).
The ATGA welcomed yesterday’s announcement that its consortium-led proposal was accepted to the TDN, with ATGA working alongside Austrade and other national peak industry bodies (PIB) to harness shared expertise and capability to identify and advance targeted export initiatives under the ANMI.
ATGA will act as a lead industry coordinating a consortium of broad horticulture industries that includes Citrus Australia, Summerfruit Australia Limited, Avocados Australia, Melons Australia, Berries Australia, Cherry Growers Australia, Apple and Pear Australia Limited, Australian Mango Industry Association and Dried Fruits Australia, with coordination support from Hort Innovation.
ATGA CEO Jeff Scott said the announcement marks an important milestone for Australian horticulture exporters.
“This is a significant opportunity for Australian table grapes and the wider horticulture sector to work collaboratively on export diversification,” Mr Scott said.
“Being selected to participate in the TDN recognises both the export maturity of our industries and the value of a coordinated, cross-industry approach.”
Mr Scott said the consortium’s focus would be on diversifying and enhancing existing industry-led export activities, strengthening proficiency and expanding commercial opportunities across new and emerging markets to support long-term export viability.
It will build on existing industry partnerships with Austrade, complement Hort Innovation levy-funded and other export market development programs and government initiatives.
“Australian horticulture has built a strong reputation in Asia, but recent global disruptions have highlighted the need to broaden our market footprint,” he said. “Through the TDN, we will work closely with Austrade to design activities that support new growth – including deeper engagement in emerging markets, second-tier cities, and premium retail channels.”
The consortium will work with Austrade to develop diversification initiatives aligned to industry, like coordinated trade missions, targeted market visits to importers and retailers, retail promotions and in-market activations, and a unified Australian horticulture presence at selected international trade shows.
“Our industries are export-ready, highly regulated and internationally competitive,” Mr Scott said. “The TDN allows us to bring that capability together, pursuing diversification in a structured, data-driven way.”
Read more about the TDN and ANMI here.