Shiploads of Premium WA Avocados Arrive in India
The introduction of Western Australian avocados into the Indian market marks a significant milestone, with the government celebrating the successful arrival of this premium produce. Over 320 tonnes of avocados, with a value surpassing $1.6 million, have made their journey to India by sea freight. A considerable portion of this initial consignment originates from Delroy Orchards, located in the lush Southern Forests region.
The journey to this groundbreaking moment commenced with the first commercial shipment late last year. This arrival followed the elimination of a 30% tariff on Australian Hass avocados through the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, paving the way for smoother trade relations between the two nations. Delroy Orchards, where the fruit is currently prepared for export in Donnybrook, is also set on broadening its operations with a new packing facility in Waroona. This expansion is anticipated to bolster local employment opportunities.
There’s a growing appetite for Western Australian avocados, known for their appealing appearance, rich flavour, creamy texture, and superior quality. This demand spans across India, the Middle East, and Asia at large. The avocado industry in Western Australia represents the fruit industry’s highest value, with record production reaching 65,000 tonnes in the 2023-24 period. With orchards at Gingin, Carabooda, Busselton, Manjimup, and Pemberton approaching full maturity in the next few years, supplies are only expected to increase.
The latest efforts to promote Western Australian avocados in India include a nine-day trade promotion event, where the state’s home-grown avocados are taking center stage. This initiative, led by Avocados Australia in collaboration with the Australian Government and supported by the Western Australian Government, builds on the success of trial shipments by local growers and exporters. The event, taking place in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, not only showcases the popular fruit but also facilitates a study tour aimed at fostering potential new trade relationships for Western Australian businesses.
Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis expressed the government’s commitment to establishing Western Australia as the premier international exporter of avocados. “We are working hard alongside industry to capture invaluable new customers and help Western Australian farmers to flourish. An increased demand for our agricultural products overseas translates to more local jobs and stronger regional economies,” she noted.
Supporting this venture, local representatives like Jane Kelsbie and Robyn Clarke have lauded the efforts of Delroy Orchards and the broader agricultural community for their pioneering spirit in tapping into new markets like India. Their achievements not only underscore the global appeal of Western Australian avocados but also spotlight the economic and employment benefits that such export initiatives bring to local communities and the state at large.
As the Western Australian avocado market continues to expand its global footprint, these collaborative efforts between the government, industry bodies, and producers underscore a united mission to deliver high-quality, locally-grown produce to the international stage, fostering economic growth and promoting the region’s agricultural prowess.
