Launch of brochures promoting export and investment options in horticulture industry

29/11/99
Primary Industry Minister Monty House today launched a series of export and investment brochures promoting opportunities in the State's $400 million horticulture industry.
Mr House said the 'At a Glance' and 'Snapshot' brochures were developed by Agriculture WA with input from industry to highlight to international customers the strong export capability of the Western Australian horticulture sector.
He said the series would also help reinforce the State's reputation for clean, quality horticultural produce.
"WA producers strive to meet changing customer demands, seizing the challenges of meeting international quality assurance and standards for both production and handling," the Minister said.
"We also have an international reputation for clean air, unpolluted waterways, freedom from major pests and diseases, and high-quality farming practices.
"These attributes have helped the State to develop strong export trade particularly with south-east Asia, and marketing opportunities continue to expand in Asia and the Northern Hemisphere."
Mr House said WA's diverse horticulture industry comprised nearly 4,000 growers from Kununurra to Albany.
Horticulture exports were valued at more than $150 million, and the State was Australia's largest exporter of fresh vegetables and native flowers, sending produce to more than 20 countries.
"The 'At a Glance' series covers the export strengths of the carrot, apple, wine, mango and strawberry industries, with future issues planned for the potato, cauliflower, new export vegetables, melon, cut flower and stone fruit industries," the Minister said.
"A special issue that covers the horticultural exporters of Western Australia is also being co-ordinated."
The first release of the 'At a Glance' series was made available for a two-day WA food and wine trade exhibition at Australia House to coincide with the promotion of the State's food and wine in England's prestigious department store Selfridges.
The Selfridges' promotion involved Agriculture Western Australia, the Department of Commerce and Trade, Fisheries WA, and the WA Tourism Commission.
The horticultural 'Snapshot' series incorporated information and investment brochures that provided a snapshot of industry progress, and outlined emerging investment potential.
Current issues in the series covered industry progress for the cauliflower, table grape and mango industries.
The 'At a Glance' and 'Snapshot' brochures are available from Agriculture Western Australia Publications Officer on (08) 9368 3729.
Media contact: Julie Cole (08) 9481 2044