(Queensland, December 02, 2023) — In a significant stride towards optimizing fruit export processes, the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has launched a four-year project, in collaboration with industry partners, to scrutinize the influence of shipping and supply chain conditions on the quality of Queensland bananas and melons destined for the Japanese market.
Under the project named “Supply chain monitoring and improvement to reduce banana quality loss,” DAF, in partnership with the Fight Food Waste CRC and Pacific Coast Produce, is dedicated to a thorough analysis of variables such as storage temperature and ripening conditions. The overarching goal is to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce potential quality losses during transportation.
A noteworthy development in the project involves the airfreighting of red-wax-tipped Ecoganic bananas from Pacific Coast Produce and Emperor’s Pearl melons from Daintree Fresh. This direct air route from Cairns to Japan marks a pioneering move, identified as the first of its kind in Australia. The strategic shift aims to streamline supply chain conditions, minimize the risk of food waste, and ensure the fruits arrive at their destination in optimal condition.
Beyond logistical considerations, DAF horticulturists are set to conduct blind tastings with the Japanese public. These tastings aim to discern consumer preferences and provide valuable insights into how Australian-grown bananas compare with their imported counterparts in terms of taste and appearance.
While the majority of Australian-grown bananas are consumed domestically, the project addresses the challenge of tapping into the Japanese market. Australia’s high relative wages have historically posed a barrier to export competitiveness. However, the project sees potential in the demand for eco-friendly and organic fruits, which have the prospect of fetching premium prices in Japan.
Mark Furner, Queensland’s Agricultural Industry Development Minister, emphasizes the economic importance of the project, stating, “Bananas are an important crop worth around $600 million to Queensland.” The optimization of export processes is seen as crucial to ensuring that Queensland’s produce maintains its freshness and quality upon reaching Japanese shelves.
Frank Sciacca, Managing Director of Pacific Coast Produce, underscores the significance of monitoring supply-chain performance. The project’s insights are poised to contribute to the consistent delivery of a premium product, addressing historical challenges in ensuring arrival quality.
In essence, Queensland’s initiative signifies a proactive step towards not only improving the quality of exported fruits but also exploring avenues for Australian growers to access and thrive in the discerning Japanese market. The results of this collaborative effort are anticipated to redefine the landscape of Australian agricultural exports. (GT)
