North West Tasmania’s farms recently welcomed 40 international buyers from 12 global markets as part of the AUSVEG Fresh Produce Showcase program.
The initiative, strongly supported by the Tasmanian Government, aims to promote local produce on the world stage, the government said in a news release.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff emphasised the government’s close collaboration with AUSVEG to facilitate the inbound visitation program.
Additionally, seven Tasmanian vegetable growers were sent to participate in this week’s Melbourne-based showcase.
“Showcasing Tasmanian products through in-bound visits is crucial in this globally competitive market. Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future commits $600,000 over the next two years to bring international buyers to us,” Premier Rockliff stated.
As part of the AUSVEG program, international buyers from Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Thailand, South Korea, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Pacific Islands visited Tasmania.
Premier Rockliff highlighted the importance of connecting these buyers with Tasmanian producers like Premium Fresh, Harvest Moon, and Sumich, and allowing them to experience the origins of the state’s renowned produce.
In addition to the Tasmanian visits, seven local producers participated in the AUSVEG Fresh Produce Showcase in Melbourne this week, fostering connections with buyers from key international markets.
Tasmanian fruit and vegetable products saw a significant increase of $1.91 million in the 12 months leading up to March 2024.
“We know Tasmania has what the world wants, and we are maintaining our laser focus on the export sector through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, committing $3.6 million to support additional trade activities,” Rockliff added.
Participants in the Melbourne showcase included Premium Fresh, Harvest Moon, Sumich, Wynyon, Menlo Fields, Newtile Farm (Freshline Tasmania), Daly Farm, and Hellfire Bluff Distillery.
