Australia Fresh led mission explores new opportunities in Indonesia
During a recent visit, six Australian delegates met with Indonesian fruit importers, upmarket retailers and Austrade officials during four days in Jakarta.
"The advice from importers was very pragmatic," Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries Market Manager for Indonesia and Philippines Brendan Larkin said.
"There are good opportunities for Australian cherries and stonefruit, for example. However if they are to make successful inroads there needs to be work in market, including in-store tastings and accompanying promotion campaigns highlighting that the fruit is grown in Australia."
"I think one of the reasons we (stonefruit) have not been as active in Indonesia is the confusion with the national allocation on some commodities," Mr Moore said.
"The Minister of Trade explained the allocation system during our visit and made it clear that there are no impediments to the volume of Australian stonefruit that we can send to Indonesia.
"This direct contact with the people in charge is one of the great benefits of these types of missions. The open and frank discussion with government officials and countless networking opportunities with buyers and retailers help clear up misconceptions and pave the way forward for future trade.
"Indonesia may be on our doorstep, but as far as fresh produce exports are concerned, there is still a long way to go, although successful trade missions like this help bring us one step closer."
Australia Fresh will continue to explore opportunities to develop trade in Asia and will have a presence at the region's premier fruit and vegetable trade show, Asia Fruit Logistica held in Singapore on 4-6 September.
For more information please visit www.australiafresh.com.au