ATGA : Australian table grape industry optimistic ahead of new export season

Favourable growing conditions, positive production forecasts and expanding international market opportunities are providing renewed optimism for Australia’s table grape industry as growers prepare for the upcoming harvest.

The Australian table grape harvest has commenced in Queensland, where early-season production is primarily destined for the domestic market. Attention will soon turn to Australia’s major export-producing region of Sunraysia, in north-west Victoria, where harvesting is expected to commence from late December to early January.

Optimism about the season
Jeff Scott, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA), said growers were increasingly optimistic about the season ahead, following favourable weather conditions throughout winter and spring.

“Growers are reporting excellent growing conditions, with cool nights, sunny days and favourable rainfall providing an ideal foundation for the development of the upcoming crop,” Mr Scott said.

“Early indications suggest that harvesting could commence approximately two weeks earlier than normal in some growing areas. While it is still early in the production cycle, growers are encouraged by the conditions experienced to date.”

The favourable seasonal outlook has also raised expectations of increased production, with preliminary industry estimates suggesting yields could potentially increase by 15–20 per cent compared with the previous season, subject to weather conditions over the coming months.

“Following several challenging seasons characterised by adverse weather events, growers are looking forward to a more favourable production year,” Mr Scott said.

“The industry has experienced some particularly difficult seasons, and the prospect of improved yields and high-quality fruit is certainly encouraging. However, weather conditions during the critical growing and harvesting periods will ultimately determine the final outcome.”

Adequate water availability for irrigation has also provided growers with greater confidence as they prepare for the warmer months.

Despite the positive production outlook, Australian growers continue to face significant cost pressures, including rising labour expenses, fuel prices, fertiliser costs and increasing regulatory requirements affecting access to crop protection products.

“Australian table grape growers operate in a highly competitive international environment. While our growers continue to invest in producing premium-quality fruit, increasing production and compliance costs remain significant challenges for the industry’s long-term competitiveness,” Mr Scott explained.

International demand and export market opportunities
While global economic conditions and cost-of-living pressures continue to influence consumer purchasing behaviour, the Australian table grape industry remains focused on strengthening its established export markets while pursuing opportunities for further diversification.

“Consumer spending pressures are being experienced across many international markets, and the fresh produce sector is certainly not immune to these challenges,” Mr Scott said.

“However, Australian table grapes have established a strong international reputation for their premium quality, freshness, food safety and consistent supply. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality fruit that meets the expectations of consumers and our international trading partners.”

Indonesia continues to be a strategically important market for Australian table grapes, alongside China and other established Asian destinations.

“Indonesia has demonstrated its importance as a major destination for Australian table grapes, and we remain committed to supporting and developing this market,” Mr Scott said.

“At the same time, we see considerable opportunities to strengthen our presence in Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines, where Australian table grapes are increasingly recognised for their premium quality.”

Mr Scott said that maintaining existing market access arrangements, reducing unnecessary trade barriers and developing new commercial relationships would remain priorities for the industry.

“Market diversification is fundamental to the long-term sustainability of Australia’s table grape export industry. Our objective is not simply to increase export volumes, but to develop strong, reliable and commercially sustainable markets that deliver value to Australian growers.”

Expanding opportunities beyond China’s traditional markets
China remains an important market for Australian table grapes, with the industry increasingly exploring opportunities beyond the country’s traditional major import and distribution centres.

Earlier this year, Mr Scott participated in a multi-industry Australian horticultural trade mission to four of China’s emerging regional commercial centres: Kunming, Chongqing, Changsha and Qingdao.

The delegation visited major wholesale markets, retail outlets and distribution centres, engaging directly with importers, wholesalers, retailers and other key industry stakeholders to better understand local market dynamics and identify opportunities for Australian fresh produce.

“The trade mission demonstrated the considerable potential that exists beyond China’s traditional first-tier markets,” Mr Scott said.

“These cities have substantial consumer populations, expanding distribution networks and growing demand for high-quality imported fresh produce. Importantly, the visit provided an opportunity to establish direct relationships with key buyers and gain valuable insights into consumer preferences and market requirements.”

Mr Scott said the mission was an important first step in building longer-term commercial relationships and creating additional distribution opportunities for Australian table grapes.

“We have established valuable initial contacts with buyers and market operators, and the next priority is to build on these relationships through continued engagement and follow-up commercial discussions.”

“China remains an important destination for Australian table grapes, and we believe that expanding our reach into emerging regional markets can complement our established trade relationships and provide additional opportunities for Australian growers and exporters.”

Confidence in the season ahead
Looking ahead, Mr Scott said the Australian table grape industry was approaching the upcoming season with cautious optimism.

“Australian growers have demonstrated remarkable resilience through several challenging years. With favourable growing conditions, encouraging production expectations and continued investment in international market development, there are good reasons to be optimistic about the season ahead.”

“Our priority is to deliver another season of premium-quality Australian table grapes to consumers around the world, while continuing to strengthen the industry’s competitiveness and long-term export opportunities.”

For more information:
Jeff Scott
ATGA
Tel: +61 417 122 086
Email: jscott@atga.net.auPublication date: Fri 23 Oct 2026

© FreshPlaza.com / Nichola McGregor