Australian vegetable growers have been provided with a practical overview of the export process at the Practicalities for Exporting Vegetables Symposium, held at RACV Royal Pines on the Gold Coast on Sunday 26 June 2016.

The speaker program for the symposium included experts from across the export supply chain, representatives from Austrade and the Australian Government, as well as vegetable growers sharing their experiences of the export process.

Speakers included Dianne Tipping, Chair of the Export Council of Australia, representatives from across the supply chain, and a panel comprising vegetable growers who have successfully exported produce all around the world sharing their experiences with attendees.

“There is increasing demand around the world for high-quality fresh Australian produce, including from Australia’s close neighbours, and many growers will be able to take the valuable lessons and insights from this seminar to build their exporting capabilities,” said AUSVEG National Manager – Export Development Michael Coote.

“Diane Tipping’s presentation on the practical process of exporting and export certification requirements provided an in-depth, detailed look at the fundamental elements behind export readiness.”

“It was also great to hear Glenn Robertson’s presentation on treatment options for fresh produce exporting, which can be a major factor for growers looking to ensure their produce gains access to target markets.”

“The exporting process can be intimidating for those who have never exported before, so this practical seminar was hugely valuable in assisting Australian vegetable growers who are looking to get into export markets but don’t have the experience or access to the networks making the transition easier.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing over 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

The Practicalities for Exporting Vegetables Symposium was the latest in a series of seminars designed to develop practical skill sets to assist growers with exporting fresh produce.

“We’ve already heard some great things from the growers who attended the symposium, and we’re hoping to see more industry members get into exporting and apply the knowledge they gained from these speakers,” said Mr Coote.

“Developing vegetable export markets is critical to the long term viability and future success of the Australian vegetable industry and events such as this are central to that goal.”

The 2016 Practicalities for Exporting Vegetables Symposium was funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia using the National Vegetable Levy and funds from the Australian Government.

MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Coote, National Manager – Export Development     

Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0416 016 202, Email: michael.coote@ausveg.com.au