Berries Australia Limited received a USD 239.000 grant from the Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) through the federal government, to help the berry industry with the tools it needs to expand to export markets. 

The ATMAC grants, awarded under the government's Agricultural Business Expansion Initiative (ABEI), support the expansion of trade in Australian blueberries and strawberries in key high-growth markets. 

Many berry growers are eager to export after going through a tough time during the pandemic, according to Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud. 

“This project will give them the knowledge and resources to actively and strategically engage with importers and retailers,” said Littleproud. “The berries represent an excellent opportunity for growth. In Australian supermarkets, berries are the largest line of fresh produce with a combined value of over $XNUMX billion.  

“There is huge potential to translate this Australian success into a global export powerhouse, especially as Australia has several of the most prized berry varieties.” 

The new project will aim to build exporter confidence and increase exports in high-growth markets including Singapore, India, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates, said Berries Australia CEO Rachel Mackenzie. 

“The financing will give exporters the opportunity to rekindle conversations and build relationships with importers and retailers in destination markets,” said Mackenzie. 

“Even if the growers are not exporters, they will also benefit as this subsidy will help grow the pie and boost the income of all growers. The project will help the agricultural sector in general to reach the value of 100 billion dollars in the farm by the goal of 000″. 

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian berry industry was starting to gain momentum in the export of blueberries and strawberries. Strawberries are Australia's largest berry export, with an export value of $35 million in 2019.