International delates savouring sweet Tasmanian fresh produce

Buyers from eight different countries are venturing around Tasmania to sample and savour the state’s best fresh produce.

Around 20 people are touring Tasmania as part of the state government’s Fresh Produce Buyer Visit.

Harvest Moon is one of the companies that is opening its doors to international buyers as part of the trip.

“For Harvest Moon, exporting is in our DNA,” Harvest Moon managing director Mark Kable said.

“But it is a huge opportunity for growth at the moment in our business and it’s one area that’s growing year on year.

“We’ve been focusing very heavily on the exports, especially into Southeast Asia, for the last five to ten years.

“That’s the area that’s been really booming for Harvest Moon, especially in some of those countries that are landlocked and don’t have the farming infrastructure behind them to provide fresh fruit and vegetables.”

Mr Kable said having the international buyers at its facility was beneficial for the company.

“We’ve become very efficient as an industry.

“In fact, Australian vegetable farms can grow enough to feed 45 million mouths, yet there are only 27 million people in Australia.

“When all the areas are producing, there is a massive oversupply.

“So exports for Australia, Tasmania and Harvest Moon are a must – trade delegations that come to our state are a must.”

Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Guy Barnett said the visit was an opportunity to highlight Tasmania’s strengths in provenance and innovation.

“By bringing international buyers to fruit and vegetable producers across the state, we’re giving them the chance to meet our producers, see where our fruit and vegetables are cultivated, and experience the freshness and quality that defines Tasmanian produce,” Mr Barnett said.

“This program is about building relationships and showcasing some of Tasmania’s best produce.

“It strengthens our existing partnerships and opens the door to new opportunities across Asia and beyond.”