Grapes and nuts lead Aussie horticulture export charge

Global Trade Atlas figures have shown a 27 per cent increase on the 2017-2018 financial year, with nuts and table grapes leading the charge.

Table grape exports boasted a 45% increase on the previous year, surpassing the half a billion-dollar mark reaching $555 million.

Australian nut exports reached $1 billion in export value.

The trade value for almonds alone reached $675 million, making it the most valuable export crop with a year on year growth of 53%.

Fresh vegetable exports also grew 18% over the past financial year and are now valued at $321 million.

Hort Innovation head of trade, Dianne Phan, said the figures showed the commitment of homegrown producers to globalise their high-quality produce, as well as investments from industry, government and Australian growers.

"We have worked incredibly hard together with industry, the Australian Government, our growers and our international trade partners to build demand for our premium produce in an increasingly competitive international market," Ms Phan said.

"As a result of in-market initiatives under the Taste Australia brand, consumer research projects, trade events and in-store retail campaigns, Australian horticultural produce has never been more popular - particularly in Asian markets, Europe, and the Middle-East where consumers enjoy high-quality products."

"Our work with industry partners, coupled with the Australian reputation for delivering high-quality produce that complies with rigorous standards along every stage of the supply chain has been a key driving force in this achievement."

Australian Horticultural Exporters' and Importers' Association chief executive officer, Andréa Magiafoglou, said indications were that exports have exceeded expectations yet again, with the strong potential for horticulture export volumes and values to achieve record breaking results.

She said it was magnificent to see such outcomes for both nuts and table grapes as well as other crops such as onions.