Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2023/24 released, optimism over future

Today's release of The Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2023/24 has revealed a 4.3% growth (YOY) in total production value for Australia's horticulture sector to $17 billion.
The Handbook, published by Hort Innovation - a not-for-profit research and development corporation supporting Australia's horticulture industry - details a year of grower resilience, increase in overall production, and export success.

Key findings
Production volume and value continue to climb: Australian horticultural production grew by 6.6% to 6.89 million tonnes, with the total production value reaching $17 billion, a 4.3% rise from the previous year.

Exports reached record highs: Export volumes increased by 8.7%, while export values reached a record high of nearly $3 billion, led by almonds, citrus, macadamias, avocados, and summer fruit.

Record year for fruit production value: Fruit saw huge growth with berries, bananas and citrus all climbing substantially in value, citrus, in particular, breaking a new record and reaching more than $1 billion in value for the first time.

Domestic supply expands to keep up with demand: Fresh market supply expanded by 4.3%, supported by strong production in watermelons, avocados, strawberries, and potatoes.

Nuts make a comeback: Almond production value rose by 63.3%, and macadamias increased by 94.1%.

Brett Fifield, CEO of Hort Innovation, said: "These figures demonstrate the incredible resilience and capability of Australian growers. From driving export growth to meeting local demand, our horticulture industry has once again proven its strength as a cornerstone of our agricultural economy. This year's results reflect a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality production, which position Australia as a competitive force globally."

Berry grower, James Kellaway of Oz Group Co-Op Limited shared his experience: "Blueberries, raspberries and blackberries have seen a large increase in production over the last 12-18 months. We can attribute this growth to increased consumer and supermarket demand, and the diversity of market opportunities for blueberry exports."

"Pleasingly, we expect to see even more growth over the coming years for the berry market as Australia's export opportunities continue to expand further into Asia and as we further progress genetic improvement of berry plant varieties. With more new berry plants feeding the market, we are seeing an increase in the characteristics consumers are looking for in the fruit including bigger berries, better crunch, and sweeter flavor - all things we hope will continue to drive demand into the next 12 months and beyond."