Australian mainland apples can now be exported to China, and the Goulburn Valley could benefit from the change.
The agreement, signed between the Australian and Chinese governments, will see exports start in the 2026 season.
China market access presents an opportunity for the Australian apple industry, tapping into China’s strong demand for premium, high-quality imported fresh fruit.
Fruit Growers Victoria growers services manager Michael Crisera said access to China’s market had been a long time coming.
“Market access into China from mainland apples has been something the industry’s been chasing for over 10 years now,” Mr Crisera said.
“It’s definitely going to be a positive long-term option to export to China for Australian growers and growers in the Goulburn Valley too.”
However, he said it wouldn’t be Pink Ladies and Galas making their way to China.
“There’s a few varieties that are grown in the GV, three main varieties I think will go over and they’re intellectual property or IP-managed varieties.
“Varieties such as Bravo, Dazzle and Sassy.”
Mr Crisera said FGV would have a better understanding of the new export opportunities once the 2026 season wrapped up.
“Our export numbers for apples are pretty low, less than one per cent, so we hope we’ll be able to get to around five per cent,” he said.
Australian mainland apples will join Tasmania’s successful exports to China, under a protocol that includes cold treatment for the management of fruit fly and ongoing recognition of the Tasmanian fruit fly pest-free area.
Apple and Pear Australia Limited chief executive officer Philip Turnbull welcomed the new agreement, emphasising the potential for Australian growers to diversify and build a more competitive industry.
“Market access for Australian mainland apples into China is a significant milestone that will provide Australian growers with a valuable opportunity to expand beyond the domestic market and establish a presence in one of the world’s most lucrative fresh produce markets,” he said.
“However, shifting supply and demand dynamics, coupled with increasing competition in the snack food category, mean that developing strong export pathways is more critical than ever.
“Access to China offers Australian growers an exciting opportunity to showcase the quality, crispness, and flavour of our apples to an entirely new audience.
“The signing of this protocol is an important step forward, enhancing the industry’s competitiveness both internationally and domestically.”