The value of Australia’s horticultural trade to China was exemplified during a ceremony at the Australian Embassy in Beijing on Thursday, according to Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA) chief executive John Lloyd.
A large contingent of Australian peak industry bodies gathered at the embassy on Thursday (10 September) to witness the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between HIA and the China Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Association (CIQA).
The ceremony was hosted by HIA’s general manager, research, marketing and investments, David Moore, and HIA’s trade manager, Sam Lawrence. Special guests included CIQA President, Ge Zhirong and CIQA secretary general, Bao Junkai.
Representatives of the Almond Board Australia, Apple and Pear Australia Limited, Cherry Growers Australia, Citrus Australia, Australian MangoIndustry Association, Summerfruit Australia, Australian Table Grape Association and Fruit Growers Tasmania also attended the event, which tied in with HIA’s hosting of the Australia Fresh pavilion at the China Fruit and Vegetable Fair (FVF).
“HIA has worked closely with CIQA to negotiate the MoU, and the high-level attendance on both sides reflects the importance the parties attach to the relationship,” Lloyd explained.
Lloyd said the MoU aimed to create a framework for mutually beneficial engagement of horticultural trade interests between the two countries.
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