Tasmanian cherry growers have notched up a record export season by value, with shipments worth close to $70 million heading overseas this summer.
More than 2,740 tonnes of cherries were exported, a 31% jump on the previous year and just shy of the all-time volume record.
The result was revealed by Fruit Growers Tasmania following its annual export debrief with growers this week.
Chief Executive Peter Cornish said a late harvest proved to be a blessing in disguise.
“I think this year the stars aligned for most of our growers,” Cornish said.
“Not only did Tasmania’s late season work in well with the late Lunar New Year period, but the fruit quality was also excellent.”
A cool spring and early summer pushed fruit ripening later than usual, lining up neatly with Lunar New Year celebrations on February 17.
That timing gave Tasmanian growers a clear run at Asian markets while competitors faltered.
“Our southern hemisphere competitors struggled to put cherries into the Asian market in February leading to less competition overall,” Cornish said.
Hong Kong reclaimed top spot as the leading destination for Tasmanian cherries. Exports to mainland China grew 168% year-on-year.
Together with Taiwan and Vietnam, those markets took more than 70% of Tasmania’s export volume.
Cherries were shipped to more than 18 regions in total.
Tasmania now accounts for 61% of the value of Australia’s national cherry exports.
Nic Hansen, president of Fruit Growers Tasmania and owner of Tasmanian Cherries, said the result was well earned.
“I’m delighted with the results from our cherry export season, which are nothing short of what our dedicated growers deserve,” Hansen said.
He pointed to mounting cost pressures, including diesel prices the have remained above $3 a litre for weeks.
“It is an excellent result and a much needed boost to Tasmanian cherry growers as we continue to focus on how to remain competitive in this high cost pressure environment,” Hansen said.
Around 60% of Tasmanian cherries are still sold domestically.
