A new biosecurity protocol will allow for Australian apple producers to export to China from the 2026 season. Signed by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and the General Administration of Customs in China, the agreement is set to strengthen Australia’s horticulture trade and its partnership with China.
China represents a key growth market for Australian horticulture, with a large and growing consumer base and an increasing demand for high-quality fresh produce. In 2024, Australian fruit and vegetable exports to China were valued at approximately $380 million.
The Australian Fresh Produce Alliance (AFPA) CEO, Claire McClelland, said securing access to China for Australian apples highlights the value of stable, two-way trade with China and the importance of continuing to strengthen that relationship for the benefit of both countries.
“Trade between Australia and China has delivered strong economic outcomes for both nations. While we understand the importance of diversification, China remains our most valuable market and has the potential to continue growing, especially as other commodities achieve access.
“This outcome for apples reflects the impact of strong political and industry collaboration, and we’re pleased to see positive momentum on a number of fronts. We now look forward to further progress on other key export commodities,” she said.
The newly secured access for apples builds on a series of recent positive trade outcomes for Australian horticulture, including improved access for table grapes to Japan and new market access for plums to Vietnam.
DAFF awarded 11 grants worth $3.9 million to industry bodies and universities to improve traceability in June 2024, aiming to increase trust in Australian agricultural exports to South-East Asia.
In October, the Australian government also signed a Letter of Intent on Cooperation in the Field of Organic Products Certification with China, aiming to establish stronger agricultural ties and opportunities for collaboration and co-operation on organic goods.
In a time of global trade uncertainty, continued growth in exports may be vital to the success of Australia’s fresh produce industry. The AFPA has called for the government to prioritise improved technical market access protocols for fresh produce exports, stating it will support the long-term viability of the sector, create jobs, boost investment, and help improve domestic competition by stabilising domestic prices and supply.
