A new window of opportunity is opening for Aussie almonds with the export market expanding into South America. Australian growers can now export almonds to Chile, following an agreement of new market access arrangements.
Each year Australia exports around $4 million worth of agricultural produce to Chile and Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the agreement was great news for the $440 million almond export industry and the farmers that underpin it.
“We are the second largest producer of almonds and our almond crop is expected to hit record levels this year and the next five years,” Littleproud said. “The majority of these almonds have been grown for export, so opening new markets is vital for the success of the industry.”
The minister said Chile is home to 18 million people and this will also help Australian growers and exporters tap into valuable Latin American markets.
“Improving market access is an important part of increasing farm gate returns and ensuring growers get premium price for their premium produce,” Littleproud said.
This year’s Australian almond crop is expected to be 16 per cent above last year’s at a record 93,000 tonnes.
