Citrus Australia CEO Judith Damiani and Market Access Manager David Daniels visited Japan in the last week of August, to meet with key members of industry and view the Now in Season! in-store promotion.
Judith and David met with with key importers and distributors, fresh produce markets, members of Austrade and the Japanese Government.
“Japan is a major market for Australia and we are focusing on building relationships and sharing information to enable us to grow,” Judith said.
“Our Japanese partners are keen to hear about future growth, as well as potential issues, and we will be open with them.”
Australia has had a surge in exports to Japan this year.
Judith attributes this to a reduction of exports from South Africa, the quality of the current harvest, and the third year of tariff reductions established through the FTA with Japan.
“Japan is a mature market and we are not just supplying fruit, we are now strengthening our levels of engagement to assure we continue to grow that relationship.”
The Now in Season! in-store program is funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia and the Victorian Government. Citrus Australia viewed the in-store promotions with a view to ensuring future programs are effective at supporting growth in this key market.
Judith said these discussions with Japan could prove to be a pilot for other markets, including China.
David was also in the Philippines last week, viewing Now in Season! Promotions and holding seminars for the trade.
For more information, please visit www.citrusaustralia.com.au.