The agreement builds on many years of engagement between Australian and Chinese horticulture stakeholders
Australian horticulture has reinforced its long-term commitment to China, with Horticulture Innovation Australia and the China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs and Native Produce signing a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen industry collaboration, knowledge exchange and supply chain connections between the two countries.
Signed at the China Australian Horticulture Showcase Gala Dinner in Shanghai on 27 August, the agreement reflects the strong and longstanding relationship between Australian and Chinese horticulture industries, while establishing a framework for ongoing cooperation, industry engagement and shared learning across the supply chain.
China is Australia’s largest horticulture export market, valued at A$1.26bn and accounting for 36 per cent of Australia’s total horticulture export value (year ending April 2026). The market plays an important role for Australian growers and exporters, with demand for premium, high-quality produce creating opportunities across a range of horticultural categories.
Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield said the agreement recognised the importance of maintaining strong industry connections in a dynamic and evolving market.
“China remains a strategically important market for Australian horticulture, and the relationships developed between our industries over many years continue to play an important role in supporting trade and mutual understanding,” said Fifield.
“Our industries are highly complementary, and Australia’s reputation for safe, premium and counter-seasonal produce continues to create value for growers, exporters and customers in both countries.
“This agreement with CFNA reflects a shared commitment to maintaining strong industry connections and supporting ongoing collaboration between Australian and Chinese horticulture.”
The agreement builds on many years of engagement between Australian and Chinese horticulture stakeholders, with a focus on improving market understanding, supporting capability development and strengthening connections across the horticulture supply chain.
Currently, around 18 Australian horticultural commodities have access to mainland China, with the market continuing to represent an important destination for Australian produce.
Fresh Produce Group executive chairman and table grape grower Anthony Poiner said access to international markets, supported by strong industry relationships, created greater choice and confidence for Australian growers.
“For growers, maintaining access to important markets such as China is about more than a single season. It gives us greater options for our produce, strengthens our understanding of what customers are looking for and supports the confidence to keep investing in our businesses,” Poiner said.
“Strong relationships across industry, government and the supply chain are critical to maintaining that access and building sustainable opportunities over the long term.”
