The National Farmer’s Federation is taking part in a trade mission to Japan, South Korea and Vietnam, seeing first-hand the insatiable demand for Australia’s safe and fresh produce.
NFF CEO Tony Mahar, who is part of the delegation, says seeing Australian fruit and vegetables on the shelf as premium products in Japan and Korea should make Australia’s farmers feel immensely proud.
"Our ability to meet consumer demand and secure market share is a direct result of the free trade agreements the Government successfully negotiated with these countries," he said. "The delegation's message to the importers we met with was that the Australian Government and farmers were united in making sure we continued to build on the market opportunities established in recent years."
He added that Japanese and Korean consumers now know Australia's products and have an appetite for more.
"The Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement, and then the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) reduced some barriers to our exports - but we’re keen to see further reductions via the JAEPA review," Mr Mahar said. "The opportunity is there to take these trade relationships to the next level and introduce even more consumers to Australia’s world class farm produce. Our Japanese and Korean customers are interested in the story behind Australia’s farm products and, above all, value our high food safety standards."
Mr Mahar said the Minster’s initiative to support an industry-to-industry approach was key to growing these markets.
"The visit provides an important opportunity to build on our already strong agricultural trade ties with these countries," he said. "Australian agriculture is an export-dependent industry. Farmers export three quarters of what they produce, the importance of nurturing international trade relationships, can't be overstated. Australian farmers talking to in-country importers and retailers, means we are able to build the confidence they need to purchase more Australian goods."
The NFF says that Vietnam is a growing market for Australian exporters including farmers. The trade mission will build on the Prime Minister’s visit last week - the first by an Australian Prime Minister in 25 years. With a population of over 95 million people, and a rapidly growing economy, Australian farmers are well placed to meet the demands of Vietnamese consumers.
The ASEAN-Australia Free Trade Agreement, and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership have already secured improved market access to Vietnam for Australia agricultural exports, including vegetables.
"With competitors constantly putting pressure on Australia’s market share, it’s critical we remain engaged and listen to our customers in these markets," Mr Mahar said. "This visit is just one indication of the priority Australian farmers put on meeting customer expectations. Enhancing the value and volume of our agricultural exports is fundamental to achieving a $100 billion agricultural industry by 2030."
Source: NFF Media Releases