Event celebrating Tasmanian cherries exported to Asia

To mark the start of the Tasmanian export cherry season, an official launch event was held on Friday, January 9, in Taipei, Taiwan.

Taiwan is Tasmania’s largest export market for cherries.

The launch event brought together key representatives from the Tasmanian cherry industry, Fruit Growers Tasmania, Cherry Growers Australia and Austrade.

People living in Taiwan, like in many Asian communities, recognise the first new moon after winter solstice as the start of a new year and celebrate this time with family and friends sharing gifts for good fortune.

The timing of the Lunar New Year makes Tasmanian cherries an ideal gift.

Peter Cornish, CEO of Fruit Growers Tasmania and board member of Cherry Growers Australia, said our cool maritime climate and long, slow growing seasons means our fruit acquires an unrivalled depth of flavour and is of exceptional quality.

“We had a slow start to the cherry season this year in Tasmania,” he said.

“A cool spring and early summer have delayed fruit ripening but thankfully this delay will mean ideal timing for late January and early February Lunar New Year celebrations.”

Mr Cornish said it was an honour to participate in the launch event on behalf of Tasmanian growers who are busy in their orchards and packing cherries to send to Taiwan.

 “Our growers appreciate the ongoing support they receive from their importers and the retailers in Taiwan and this event is in part to thank them for all their efforts,” Mr Cornish said.

“I’d also like to say a massive thanks to our growers, who remain committed to advancing Tasmania’s cherry exports and enhancing the prominence of Tasmanian fruit in global markets.

Tasmanian Deputy Premier and Minister for Trade Guy Barnett addressed attendees at the launch.

“The Tasmanian Pest Free Area is the only region within Australia that can export cherries to Taiwan, something the Tasmanian Government is dedicated to maintaining,” he said.