The Australian cherry industry is in a strong phase of growth with forecast increases in production over the next five years. However, the continued profitability of the Australian cherry industry with this increased production will rely on increased sales on both domestic and export markets. While it is important to maintain and grow the domestic market, the future of the Australian cherry industry will rely on exports.

The global trade of cherries in 2016 was US$2.4 billion. While Australian cherry exports have steadily increased 24% since 2012, there is tremendous scope to increase exports. However, this must be based on delivering high quality cherries onto export markets. Increased competition from other southern hemisphere producers such as Chile into important exports markets reinforces the need to improve Australian fruit quality and market differentiation.

SEE THE FULL STORY IN THE AUGUST/SEPTEMBER ISSUE OF AUSTRALIAN TREE CROP MAGAZINE