Technical market access to China granted for mainland Aussie Apples

Tom Sheehan - with ANABP 01 apples in his orchard in Donnybrook WA

Ann Lyster apple grower in Manjimup WA and Chair of Fruitwest

“Great Opportunity" for Soluna”

The future is looking brighter for Australian apple growers.

On Monday, 28 April , it was announced that China has granted technical market access for apples on the Australian mainland. This opportunity is a long-awaited achievement and is seen as a significant boost for our sector. Congratulations to APAL, especially Jenny Van de Meeberg, Head of Trade, for her role in successfully negotiating this trade agreement on behalf of the apple and pear industry.

While apples grown on the island state of Tasmania have previously been accepted by China, it has banned those grown on the mainland over fruit fly concerns.

In a country with a population of 1.4 billion, Aussie apples targeting the premium market have a significant opportunity to make a positive impact on the overall sustainability of the industry. This market could be utilised to introduce the exceptional quality of Australian apple products globally, which are grown with care and dedication.

Some believe there is potential to introduce new, uniquely Australian-bred apple varieties alongside some beloved favorites, possibly through a co-consignment package. Building on the success of other horticultural fruit products, such as Australian Citrus and Table Grapes, Australian pome fruit growers now have an opportunity to re-enter the export market on a much larger scale.

Bravo/Soluna Opportunity

WA orchardist Ann Lyster, who is the Chair of Fruitwest (the licensed manager of the ANABP01 variety), has expressed her enthusiasm for the recent news. China could be added to the Bravo/Soluna-branded Apple export program. “This is an exciting development,” Ann stated. “Export has always been a key focus for the ANABP 01 variety, for Australian apple industry development. Fruitwest has been preparing for this opportunity to continue to showcase this unique and exclusive apple globally”.

Derived and bred from the Australian National Apple Breeding Program based in Manjimup, Western Australia. The ANABP 01 variety is splendidly sweet in its taste profile, which may appeal to Chinese preferences. Along with the health benefit research currently underway, https://www.pomewest.net.au/news/bravo-health-research-announcement-by-fruit-west-cooperative, this may make it even more attractive to this new market.

Ann stated, “Australia is well-known for producing high-quality products, and we aim to create a niche market through a coordinated marketing export plan. It is essential to ensure a continuous supply through a long-term program, along with a commitment to premium quality. Additionally, fostering and strengthening relationships throughout this process is crucial. This strategy could help growers achieve the returns they need while ensuring sustainable production in the long term.”