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Tasmanian Farmer article - June 2026
Fruit Growers Tasmania | Monday, 1 June 2026, 7.00am
The last couple of months have seen some impressive figures in relation to our outstanding fruit industry here in Tasmania.
The recent Tasmanian Agri-Food ScoreCard shows the estimated total farm-gate value of fruit in 2023-24 was $401 million.
Berries had an estimated farm-gate value of $216 million, cherries an estimated farm-gate value of $102 million, and pome fruit an estimated farm-gate value of $70 million.
In previous years, the reported values for berries and apples were not accurate. As a result, we worked closely with NRE Tas to develop a consistent method for assessing the value of berry and pome fruit for future ScoreCard editions with the 2023-24 figures reflecting this collaborative approach. The figures are based on industry-sourced data for berries, pome fruit and cherries.
Fruit Growers Tasmania is currently undertaking a census of the fruit growing industry so we can continue to provide accurate data on fruit production in Tasmania. It’s really important we have this data to be able to continue to advocate on behalf of growers in a relevant and effective way.
We released the official trade data for the 2025-26 Tasmanian cherry export season in April. They showed exceptional results, with exports worth close to $70 million, a new record in value! More than 2,740 tonnes were exported, up by 31 per cent on last year and just below the highest on record.
What was particularly pleasing was that both volume and unit pricing for cherries increased this season, showing that Tasmania’s exceptional quality continues to be rewarded in export markets.
Tasmanian cherries represented 61 per cent of the value of national cherry exports, which just goes to underline the strength of the Tasmanian cherry industry.
It’s also important to note, that some 60 per cent of all Tasmanian cherries are sold throughout Australia.
Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, and Vietnam remain the key export destinations for our cherries, receiving more than 70 per cent of Tasmania’s total export volume. However, with more than 18 regions receiving cherries, market diversification continues to be a focus.
Last year’s $130 million investment in facilities at Hobart Airport has enabled them to host larger aircraft for direct flights to and from places like Singapore and Hong Kong. This has provided opportunities for direct exports, meaning Tassie growers can get their fresh produce to destinations faster, in better quality, and therefore achieve a higher premium.
As a valued Associate member of Fruit Growers Tasmania, Hobart Airport understands their role in connecting Tassie’s fresh, high value exports with international markets and are helping Tasmanian produce arrive fresh, fast and ready to impress on the global stage.
