Fruit Growers Tasmania has today launched TASMANIAN GROWN, a digital showcase of horticultural produce while participating at Asia Fruit Logistica 2022 in Bangkok. 

The showcase features fruit, nut and vegetable produce from across Tasmania and will become an important way for growers to find additional markets for their produce. 

Assistant Minister for Trade and Manufacturing Tim Ayres said it was excellent to see fruit growers collaborating across the horticulture sector to help build new market connections.  

“As the Assistant Minister responsible for food and beverage processing policy, it’s excellent to see initiatives like this,” Assistant Minister Ayres said.  

“It’s another opportunity for delicious Tassie produce to be showcased to the world.   

“Export initiatives like TASMANIAN GROWN go a long way in supporting local farmers and build upon the strength of Tasmania’s brand.

“Our government will continue to support Australian horticulture and continue to work on expanding export opportunities.

“That’s why the National Reconstruction Fund identifies food and fibre processing as a key priority, including allocating $1 billion towards Advanced Manufacturing and $500 million for Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Food and Fibre.” 

Fruit Growers Tasmania CEO Peter Cornish said the digital platform aims to leverage the market recognition success Tasmanian cherries, apples, onions and carrots had already received internationally. 

“Buyers of Tasmanian cherries are often asking us what else is available from Tasmania – this website will showcase the fresh food that we grow, when it is available and how to buy it,” Mr Cornish said.

“Importantly, it will give us a digital presence all day, every day.

“It is a great example of Tasmania’s leading fruit, vegetable and nut growers working together, with the tremendous support of the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, the Tasmanian Fruit and Vegetable Export Facilitation Group and Fruit Growers Tasmania.” 

The Australian Government had previously provided over $460,000, as part of the Small and Medium Enterprises Export Hubs Initiative, to Fruit Growers Tasmania to establish an agrifood export hub for the Tasmanian region. 

This funding was also matched by the Tasmanian State Government and industry. 

Austrade has supported and partnered with producers at Asia Fruit Logistica 2022 by hosting an Australian Pavilion to showcase Australia’s horticulture capability.

“The Albanese Government has shown its commitment to supporting the Tasmanian food industry and growers,” Assistant Minister Ayres said.

“One of my priorities as Assistant Minister is to implement clear and effective Country of Origin Labelling for seafood in hospitality, which will make a difference for the Tassie seafood industry.”  

In last week’s Budget, there was over $71 million in targeted support for Tasmanian industry.

This included food industry commitments such as $2.1 million to help expand Costa’s East Devonport Berry Distribution Centre and $11.1 million to support upgrades to Ingham’s Sorell poultry facility. 

Media contact: Assistant Minister Ayres' office 02 6277 3469