A new research initiative aims to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Australian avocados in international markets, focusing on fruit condition at the retail level in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.
Funded by Hort Innovation through the avocado research and development levy, the Avocado International Retail Quality Benchmarking Project (AV24015) will evaluate avocado quality in key export destinations to identify how supply chain conditions influence fruit quality on supermarket shelves.
Over the next two years, Applied Horticultural Research (AHR), in collaboration with Avocados Australia and local partners, will conduct weekly assessments of avocado quality in retail outlets in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. The findings will be linked to supply chain data to identify points where handling and storage practices could be improved.
© AHR
The project will provide exporters with real-time data through an online dashboard designed to support timely responses to quality issues and facilitate continuous improvement in export operations.
Project leader Adam Goldwater said the goal was to better understand how fruit condition changes along the export chain. "By connecting fruit quality at retail with supply chain data, we can identify where improvements can be made and help maintain Australia's reputation for premium-quality produce," he said.
As part of the program, the project team will travel to Hong Kong to assess both Australian and competing avocado varieties available at retail. The team will also train local staff to continue weekly sampling and assessments over the two-year benchmarking period.
The results of the benchmarking will be shared with growers and exporters to inform export strategies and strengthen links with overseas supply chain partners.
During the visit, project members will also meet with importers, retailers, and wholesalers to observe local handling processes from port arrival to retail display. "Strong relationships with importers and retailers will help us understand any unique challenges in the local supply chain and how they might differ from the Australian situation," Goldwater said.
© AHRFor more information:
Applied Horticultural Research
Tel: +61 2 8627 1040
Email: [email protected]
www.ahr.com.au
