TOP End mango growers are being urged to take advantage of access to the lucrative United States market gained by the Australian government earlier this year.
Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce said applications are now open for mango growers to nominate orchards or blocks for export in 2015 to the US and to other major markets such as China, Japan and Korea.
“Market access for mangoes to the US was gained late in the 2014 season—I hope in 2015 we will see even more growers take the opportunity presented by access to the valuable US market,” Minister Joyce said.
“Our mangoes are the best in the world, and I am confident that expanding our horticulture trade with the US will help reinforce Australia’s reputation as a reliable supplier of clean, green premium produce,” he said.
Northern Territory Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, Willem Westra van Holthe said the US market is wonderful.
“It’s very stable, with clear and consistent rules and regulations and I encourage all Territory mango growers to take advantage of this opportunity,” Minister Westra van Holthe said.
Minister Joyce said the Australian government was committed to increasing farmgate returns for producers by creating new trade opportunities for Australia’s agricultural sector.
“We said Australia was open for business and we meant it. In the agriculture portfolio since September 2013, we have achieved 42 key market access gains or restorations of suspended markets, and 14 key market access improvements or actions to maintain market access.
“Access to the US, Japanese, Chinese and Korean markets represent great opportunities for Australia’s $110 million a year mango industry.
“The Australian Mango Industry Association is conducting workshops for crop monitors with support from the Department of Agriculture to ensure they understand the export requirements of these markets so growers can capitalise on export opportunities.”
Growers, pack-houses and treatment facilities have until July 27 to submit their application to the Australian Mango Industry Association.
Crop monitors interested in attending a workshop are encouraged to contact the Australian Mango Industry Association.