Australian Stonefruit Grower Magazine Issue 4 April 2017 | Page 7

CEO's Report take many forms. Many Chinese companies are importing agricultural systems and practices from countries such as Australia. There are opportunities to develop linkages with such companies, to the benefit of both parties. Australia is not alone in this desire – China has Free Trade Agreements with 11 countries, including Chile, Peru and Costa Rica. However, we have a reputation for both quality and value for money. Linking with northern hemisphere partners would not only gain us better access into Chinese markets, but extend the supply of specific, branded products. As China enters the second year of its Participants at Fresh Connections Shanghai (including John Moore at centre of image - ed). 13th Five-Year-Plan, China’s rapidly growing middle class is searching for innovative products which combine quality and safety. With increasing imports, lessons learnt; send quality fruit, well branded and not more second and even third tier cities are acquiring the inferior brix fruit looking for a quick buck. As I have said the type of CIQ customs clearance systems that were once Chinese consumer is a very discerning buyer very familiar held exclusively by cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and with new technologies and interactive media. Industry Guangzhou. Direct flights into such cities mean that must take responsibility for the International stage we Australian stonefruit has market opportunities as never now share with Chile, distinguishing our choice premium before. quality stonefruit from the bulk mass of Chilean stonefruit. Here’s hoping we have a better 2017/18 season for really establishing Australian stonefruit and be mindful of the – John Moore See your levy in action Hortlink is Horticulture Innovation Australia’s quarterly publication delivering a detailed overview of your levy at work. Each edition is packed with essential, easy-to-read info for growers, including: • Details of new, ongoing and recently completed R&D projects for each levy industry • Results and resources that can be used in growers’ businesses • Updates on industry marketing activity and results • Case studies featuring growers, researchers and more. ACCESS CURRENT EDITION www.horticulture.com.au/grower-focus/summerfruit/ AND IF YOU’RE NOT ALREADY A MEMBER OF HORT INNOVATION, REMEMBER THAT SIGNING UP IS FREE AND EASY AT www.horticulture.com.au/membership summerfruit.com.au April 2017 | Australian Stonefruit Grower 7