Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor has encouraged cherry growers to lobby hard the new Government to continue its work in unlocking China to Australian producers.

“The cherry industry around Young is a clear example of where benefits will flow once a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is established with China.

“Since New Zealand’s FTA with China came into effect in 2008, the growth rate of New Zealand’s agricultural exports has tripled to 38% per year.

“Failure in the past to open up China to our cherry growers has had such a high impact on them. The new Government will be working hard to turn this around,” Mr Taylor said.

“Cherry growers have identified the huge opportunities for growth in export markets and the industry is aiming to export 50% of its total annual production in a couple of years.

“I am regularly talking with growers in my electorate and advising them on how to overcome issues in the supply chain, particularly in regard to the expense of transporting such a perishable product relative to its overall value. Supply chain problems hurt our competitive position.

“As well as moving to achieve an FTA, we need to be determined to look at other strategies.

China and other growth markets are increasingly concerned about food security. Our biosecurity strategies and our infrastructure have to be upgraded to meet these needs.

“Yes, the pioneering of new markets requires commitment and the closest collaboration between industry and Government. But the rewards, particularly in unlocking China, cannot be measured.”

CAPTION: Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor viewing the cherry harvest at Mike and Wendy Batinich’s orchard at Young.