THE Australian government has announced new funding to assist the grain sector focus in on new and emerging markets and build the reputation and quality of Australian crops.
Grains Australia Limited has been awarded a $969,480 grant to develop new export markets for Australian grains, oilseeds and pulses.
The gross value of crop production is estimated to have reached a near-record $35.5bn in 2020-21. Grains, oilseeds and pulses accounted for 50% of the value of crop production.
The gross value of wheat production is estimated at a record $9.7 billion for 2020-21.
Agriculture minister David Littleproud said, “Australian grain is highly regarded in Indonesia, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam and the subcontinent.
“But we are under increasing competition from other suppliers and emerging production, particularly from the Black Sea region and Argentina.
“Through this grant, the Australian grains industry will explore new markets and seek to grow market share in traditional ones.
“South East Asian markets are booming and through this grant we will provide virtual workshops to raise awareness of the unique qualities of Australian feed grains for livestock feed rations.”
Building on the Australian government’s work, the grains industry is also developing a collaborative grains partnership with India, bringing together stakeholders from government and industry from both countries to build a platform for future trade in grain and grain products.
Grains Australia CEO Jonathan Wilson said the project was the result of the industry coming together.
“This grant is a collaboration between leading grain groups across Australia, working together to improve market diversification for our grain growers.
“Market access matters to us all, and it’s important to draw on our different strengths to find the best outcome for producers and exporters,” he said.
