Sugar code of conduct ensure exports, says government

AUSTRALIAN sugar exporters are better placed to maximise their trade following a four-year extension to The Sugar Code of Conduct. That’s the view of agriculture minister David Littleproud who this week joined member for Dawson George Christensen to announce the extension following an “extensive review which included sixty written submissions. “The code came about to give sugar cane growers, millers and marketers certainty to just get on with the job and I’m happy to say it’s here to stay,” Mr Christensen said. Minister Littleproud said the government held public consultations across Queensland and Northern New South Wales. “This now provides certainty,” Mr Littleproud said. "Public consultations were held in Gordonvale, Innisfail, Ingham, Ayr, Mackay, Bundaberg and Broadwater and with key stakeholders to make sure a range of views were heard. “I acknowledge the sugar industry’s recent efforts in improving cooperation. I look forward to industry continuing to work together on the recommendation to develop a strategy to address the shared future challenges facing the industry.” Member for Flynn Ken O’Dowd said this was welcome news for one of the key pillars of agriculture across Queensland. “Australia is the third largest sugar exporter in the world and we must remain strong and viable,” Mr O’Dowd said.