Tackling turbulent times in trade

Fruit Growers Tasmania | Wednesday, 3 September 2025, 4.00pm

Fruit Growers Tasmania is tackling the turbulent times being experienced in the global trade market head on by escorting a grower contingent to Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong this week (3 - 5 September).

“The changing landscape of international trade continues to pose challenges for our industry,” stated Peter Cornish CEO of Fruit Growers Tasmania. “Never in recent history has there been this level of turbulence, complexity and geopolitical tension.”

Recent global disruptions began with Covid-19 which halted air travel and disrupted trade routes, followed by the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, trade sanctions being imposed and now tariff hikes. All have resulted in a great deal of trade uncertainty. Added to this, are more frequent floods and other climate events, which also impact trade supply channels.

Peter said “Fortunately, as a small island we have a great deal going for us. A stable and supportive government, a pristine environment with low pest pressure, mild growing conditions, long summer days, and plenty of clean water and rich fertile soils. The result is fruit with greater flavour, size, and colour.

“We offer international buyers a great range of fresh temperate fruit which is of premium quality and arrives in Asian markets within 72 hours of packing. A claim that not many other regions can make, due in part to the need for phytosanitary treatment.”

A key role of Fruit Growers Tasmania is to raise awareness in key markets and build the demand for Tasmanian grown fruit. Asia Fruit Logistica is the largest fresh fruit and vegetable trade event in Asia, so it is a must attend event.

Fruit Growers Tasmania will be promoting the premium nature of Tasmanian fresh fruit by sharing two unique Tasmanian apple varieties Tiger Fuji and Rubigold, fresh for buyers to sample.

This year there are four Tasmanian fruit businesses sharing the Fruit Growers Tasmania stand: Aunita Cherries, Somercotes, Spreyton Fresh and Tamar Valley Fruits.

Aunita Cherries is a cherry orchard based near Launceston which is attending for the first time. Somercotes Cherries is an expanding, diversified operation based in the midlands that produces cherries and farms sheep. Spreyton Fresh produces fresh apples and cherries and brews an award-winning range of ciders in the Devonport region while Tamar Valley Fruits operate apple and cherry orchards in the State’s north as well as a vineyard in the south. All are hoping to secure new buyers and reconnect with existing customers.

Further to these businesses attending with Fruit Growers Tasmania, Reid Fruits has its own booth, and Hansen Orchards will also be present.

The value of Tasmania’s international cherry exports is worth more than $45 million and is generated in a six to eight week period each summer.

“The situation for global trade is not lost on our competitors,” said Peter. “With representation from 42 countries, competition is high. China once again holds the largest country representation at the tradeshow, with the USA second and Australia the third largest. Australian businesses and industry bodies will take up some 890m2 of floor space at the event.

“This year Fruit Growers Tasmania’s attendance has been strongly supported by the Tasmanian Government allowing us to better promote Tasmanian grown fruit. This is part of a three year marketing and promotion investment by the government.

“For those people who will be attending Asia Fruit Logistica, please come along and chat to us, we are within the Australian pavilion at 3S01.”