The Australian potato industry has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing a production value of $1 billion, as reported in the latest Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook. Maintaining an annual production rate of approximately 1.4 million tonnes, the sector witnessed a remarkable 24% increase in value in the last fiscal year. Nigel Crump, acting chair of Potatoes Australia, attributes this growth to substantial investments in automation and innovation within the sector. Major processing companies and the fresh sector alike have seen considerable infrastructure enhancements.
Tasmania leads as the top potato-producing state, followed by South Australia and Victoria, contributing significantly to the national output. With an eye on expanding export markets, Australia has successfully exported over 40,000 tonnes of potatoes, primarily to South Korea and the Philippines. Potato grower Michael Smith, based in Western Australia, has observed a sustained demand surge, prompting an increase in his plantings and noting the industry's first-time achievement of surpassing the $1 billion mark as a motivating factor for young growers.
Source: abc.net.au