Australian table grape exports to China reach US$600 million

Australia’s table grape industry says export growth in China was built on compliance, quality management, and long-term buyer relationships, offering lessons for apple growers exploring export opportunities.

According to the Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA), the industry now exports more than US$600 million worth of grapes, following the expansion of shipments into Asian markets, particularly China.

ATGA CEO Jeff Scott said the industry began focusing on exports around 2005 after recognising the limitations of the domestic market. Market access to China was achieved in 2011 after several years of negotiations and relationship-building with buyers.

However, the first season in China was followed by export suspensions after multiple shipments failed inspections due to contaminants, including ants, dirt, and leaf material.

“After we had finally gained access to the Chinese market, several shipments were knocked back by Chinese inspectors,” Scott said.

According to Scott, the industry responded by changing packing procedures and increasing compliance controls, including the use of controlled-condition packing sheds for export fruit.

“We had to treat our export grapes differently from domestic ones,” he said.

The ATGA also introduced grower education programs and developed a mobile application providing information on maximum residue limits (MRLs) and withholding periods for domestic and export markets.

“It took a lot of effort, understanding, and education,” Scott said.

The industry’s export value later increased from around US$30 million to US$623 million.

Scott said maintaining quality standards remains central to export pricing and buyer relationships.

“If you deliver poor quality, buyers will hit you hard on pricing,” he said. “If you promise them quality X and then give them Y, you’re going to feel the pinch.”

According to Scott, face-to-face engagement with Asian buyers remains important for long-term trade relationships. The industry regularly hosts overseas buyers in Australian growing regions and conducts pre-season market briefings.

Exports are currently concentrated in Asia, with China accounting for around 35 to 40 per cent of shipments, followed by Indonesia at around 20 per cent. Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines each account for around 6 to 7 per cent.

Scott said competition from Peru, Chile, and South Africa continues to increase in export markets.

“Competing solely on price isn’t an option,” he said.

The ATGA added that smaller growers can participate in exports by partnering with established exporters to manage logistics and market access requirements.

For more information:
APAL
Tel: +61 3 9329 3511
Email: APALinfo@APAL.org.au
www.apal.org.auPublication date: Wed 27 May 2026

Source: Fresh Plaza