Peak industry body AUSVEG has today welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to re-nominate Mr Rod Sims for the position of Chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for a further term.

“We’ve found Mr Sims to be an exemplary Chairman of the ACCC.  Mr Sims has been a strong and passionate advocate for fairness in the business community and upholding the principles of robust competition,” said AUSVEG Deputy CEO Andrew White.

“We fully support Mr Sims’ nomination by the Federal Government for another term as Chairman and look forward to continuing to work with the ACCC on issues affecting vegetable and potato growers,” said Mr White.

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

“The Australian vegetable industry is currently challenged by a highly competitive domestic market.  Whilst we are dedicating significant resources to expansion and development in export markets, the current situation with rising costs and an oversupply of most vegetable products domestically means that local businesses are dealing with tough conditions right now,” said Mr White.

“Under Mr Sims leadership, the ACCC has been very willing to working with small and medium businesses to address their concerns about competition issues. With the planned introduction of an ‘effects test’ we look forward to the ACCC having stronger powers to protect small and medium businesses against anti-competitive behaviour.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:  Andrew White, AUSVEG Deputy CEO
Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0409 989 575, Email: andrew.white@ausveg.com.au