RESEARCHERS will map the supply chain of horticultural products exported to India with an aim to maintain quality and boost trade in the high-value market
KPMG Australia will conduct the research which is funded through a Federal Government Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) grant awarded to Hort Innovation.
Last year, Australia exported more than 30,000 tonnes of produce to India, which was an increase from nearly 15,000 tonnes in 2022.
Currently, Australia has market access into India for tree nuts (almonds, macadamias, pistachios), fruit (apples, avocados, blueberries, cherries, citrus, dates, pears, apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, table grapes) and vegetable (chives, leeks, onions, shallots).
The Avolution chief executive Antony Allen said the avocado industry is primed to do business with India.
"With our early exports to India, we are already learning so much about this market and our customers. This study offers deeper insights that will help grow our partnership with India further," Mr Allen said.
"The avocado industry is gearing up to make our mark on the Indian market after last year's federal government announcement that Australian Hass avocados can now be exported to that market.
"We have got levy-funded promotions featuring former Australian cricketer Brett Lee scheduled for May to deliver positive messages about Aussie avos, sharing their virtues in terms of taste, nutrition and versatility."
Last year, agriculture minister Murray Watt led a delegation to India with 12 senior members of Australian agribusiness to promote produce and push for greater trade ties between the two countries.
Agriculture minister Murray Watt said 2024 would deliver new opportunities for the nation's horticulture industry.
"Australia grows world-class produce, and we want to get it on more dinner plates right across the globe," Mr Watt said.
"With positive outcomes already emerging through the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, India provides immense opportunity for Aussie growers and producers, with a young, growing population who value Australian produce."
Hort Innovation chief executive Brett Fifield said India has never been more of a focus for produce exports.
"Growth in incomes, population, and urbanisation in India are projected to drive a substantial hike in premium agrifood consumption in the future," Mr Fifield said.
"By 2050, significant increases are expected in import demand from India for fruit, vegetables and nuts, so now is the time for the Australian horticulture sector to better understand the Indian supply chain."
"The time is ripe for our exporting industries to capitalise on trade opportunities with India, and this report will provide us with a roadmap on where to focus our efforts and drive value for our sector."
