Almond industry international study tours (AL23004)
What is it all about?
This investment enhances the Australian almond industry's knowledge and capabilities by organising study tours to Spain and Portugal (Iberian Peninsula), and the United States of America (California). The tours will focus on industry practices and innovations, allowing participants to observe international practices, establish cross-industry relationships, and share new insights within the broader Australian industry.
Challenge
The Australian almond industry faces challenges in maintaining competitiveness and fostering innovation amid rapid international advancements. Adapting to new production practices, such as self-compatible varieties and high-density growing systems, is crucial. This requires tailoring techniques from regions with similar climates but different operational scales while addressing issues including water scarcity, pest management, and frost damage.
Additionally, fostering international relationships for knowledge exchange is vital. Engaging diverse stakeholders, from growers to researchers, and ensuring active participation is essential.
Response
The tours will focus on firsthand observation of practices and innovations in the Iberian Peninsula and California, which have embraced innovations like self-compatible varieties and high-density growing systems. By involving a diverse group of up to 15 Australian almond supply chain stakeholders, including emerging leaders, the project aims to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. The findings and insights gained from these tours will be shared through existing industry communication channels and projects to maximise impact.
Benefit
The study tours implemented in this project will provide Australian almond industry stakeholders with valuable insights into global best practices and access to new technologies, enhancing their ability to innovate and improve productivity. By establishing strong international linkages with key research institutes and producers, the project will support future R&D investments and foster a collaborative environment.
Distributing the learnings from these tours will contribute to the industry's sustainability, efficiency, and profitability, ensuring informed decision-making and optimising future investments in productivity and demand. Ultimately, this initiative will contribute to the Australian almond industry’s strategic goals of increased industry supply, production and sustainability, improved capability and innovative culture, and a more profitable industry positioned for continued growth and success.
This project is a strategic levy investment in the Hort Innovation Almond Fund