What is it all about?

This project supports Australian apple and pear growers to build stronger, more sustainable export markets. It focuses on helping the industry become more export-oriented to manage growing domestic supply and reduce pressure on local prices. Apples and pears are at different stages of export development, but both rely on better market access, stronger export skills and clearer trade pathways to remain profitable.

The project brings growers, exporters and industry experts together through commodity-specific export committees for apples and pears. These committees set annual priorities based on agreed export strategies and market plans. Apple and Pear Australia Limited (APAL) then delivers the agreed activities, supported by technical expertise and oversight from Hort Innovation. 

Key activities include improving technical market access, lifting export capability, strengthening export competitiveness and improving trade knowledge across the industry. The project also maintains practical tools such as online export plans, trade data dashboards, an export help desk, an Export Hub and an MRL app.

The project addresses the challenge of increasing fruit supply, strong import competition and limited domestic demand. By improving access to overseas markets, particularly for premium branded varieties, it helps growers diversify markets and stabilise returns. 

Expected outcomes include better-informed growers, stronger export capability, improved market access and more resilient apple and pear industries over the long term.