Table grape growers in Mildura and Robinvale intending to export to China for the first time this season are currently being audited by Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services officials ahead of a visit by Chinese delegates later this month.
According to a report in Australian agricultural publication the Weekly Times, Chinese officials will verify pest-monitoring practices, oversee field packing of grapes, and check paperwork during their visit.
Provided the officials are satisfied all requirements have been met, import permits will be issued allowing Australian table grapes direct access to the Chinese mainland for the first time, reported the newspaper.
While winning access to the huge Chinese market in August of last year has been a boon for the industry, the majority of exporters spoken to by Fruitnet.com are taking a wait and see approach, preferring to watch how others fare before sending fruit there.
Australian Table Grape Association chairman Nick Muraca told the Weekly Times volumes to China would be low this season as exporters tested the waters.
“I would assume there will only be very small amounts done, just to try and set it up, so that in a year or two everyone’s got the confidence to do a bit more,” he said.
“All we’re trying to do this year is to introduce our product to them, get them to see it, taste it.”
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