Australian citrus looks to China

China is where it’s at for Australian citrus growers, according to David Thomas, BRIC (Brazil Russia India China) expert.

Thomas is the keynote speaker at the Citrus Australia National Issues Forum in Melbourne on 28 and 29 October.

“China is a big, growing market with changing dynamics and great opportunity for Australian companies - especially those companies producing food,” Thomas said.

“The Chinese have always been concerned about the quality of their food - 73% of Shanghai residents say the local food is unsafe - and they are constantly looking for opportunities to get access to high-quality fresh food from a reliable source. Australia is one such source.”

Thompson is the CEO of Think Global Consulting and specialises in engaging with companies, investors and businesses in each of the rapidly growing BRIC markets. He will join growers, packers, exporters and other industry participants to workshop strategic issues at the inaugural event in Melbourne.

Day one includes members‐only sessions and the Citrus Australia annual general meeting concluding with open sessions and a networking dinner. Day two is open to all and features workshops on China, strategic changes to the Australian Citrus Quality Standards and an update from Plant Health Australia on biosecurity.

For more information, visit the Citrus Australia website.