Western Australian avocado growers are preparing for what could be their largest harvest on record while targeting expanded export markets, including China, to maintain market balance.
"We're shaping up to have WA's largest season on record," said Trevor Bendotti of Bendotti Avocados. "The previous record was set two seasons ago, and we're well on track to smash that." He added that high yields and export demand have encouraged more growers to enter the industry.
Western Australia produced 36,889 tons of avocados in the 2024/25 financial year, contributing to the national output of 131,385 tons. Australia's record crop of 150,913 tons was recorded in 2023/24, and total production is forecast to reach 171,163 tons within two years.
With output rising, growers remain cautious about potential oversupply. Four years ago, Western Australian producers were forced to dump fruit amid a domestic glut. Pemberton grower Clint De Campo said market conditions have improved. "This year, things are looking pretty good. Yields are up, the fruit's clean, and the prices are OK."
Bendotti said production planning and market coordination are essential. "Growing and picking without proper planning will be detrimental to everyone. Managing the flow of fruit through the domestic market while increasing export opportunities becomes even more critical with the additional volumes we're seeing."
Avocados Australia WA director Brad Rodgers said exports will play a central role in stabilising the market. In 2024/25, Australia exported about 14,000 tons of avocados, down from around 20,000 tons the previous year. "We're rewriting our national strategy plan and export will be a big focus," Rodgers said. "We're working hard to secure new market access, particularly to China."
Western Australia's pest-free status already allows exports to Japan and Thailand, while formal approval for China remains under negotiation between Canberra and Beijing. "We've done a lot of groundwork there as an industry," Rodgers said. "We've signed MOUs with Shanghai markets worth around $250 million in Australian avocados, which shows just how strong their interest is."
Industry representatives expect that once trade approval is secured, Western Australian growers will be well-positioned to begin shipments to China.
Source: ABC News
