Export initiative Australia Fresh recently held a trade mission in China,which organizers claim has helped strengthen ties between the two countries.

The mission was held in step with a pavillion at the 5th China World Fruit & Vegetable Trade Fair (China FVF) in Beijing, which Australia Fresh program director Agnes Barnard said was an important event, particularly for industries seeking market access to China or those who had recently gained access.

"This is the third year that we have participated, and perhaps one of our best," she said in a release.

"The quality of visitors to the stand in the first two days has improved on previous years and Australia Fresh co-exhibitors received more commercial interest from fruit importers."

The pavillion had seven co-exhibitors from Australia, with Citrus Australia and Victorian Cherry Exporters joining Australia Fresh members Apple & Pear Australia, the Australian Table Grape Association, Summerfruit Australia, Avocados Australia and the Australian Lychee Growers Association.

"Briefings by the Australian Department of Agriculture and Austrade highlighted the benefits of trading under a united Australian banner and the need for 'Team Australia' to have a consistent message," Barnard said.

"This is where Australia Fresh is so valuable in supporting member industries to gain a foothold in new markets."

The China Entry & Exit Inspection, and Quarantine Association (CIQA), which is a major sponsor of the horticultural exhibition, gave the Best Exhibitor Award to Australia Fresh.

"It is a significant step forward for Australian horticulture and reflects a closer relationship between Australia Fresh industry members and CIQA."

Participants also engaged in a China-Australia Workshop on Horticultural Cooperation, and the itinerary also included a China market briefing and a supply chain tour.

Along with visits to Walmart, high end supermarket chain BHG and expat-focused Jenny Lou's Supermarket, the delegates also visited Xinfadi Wholesale Agricultural Products Market, the largest wholesale market in Beijing and one of the biggest in the world.

The mainland China trade mission was followed by a Taiwan trade mission with Australia Fresh members.

Photo: Australia Fresh

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