OUTLOOK 2007 6 March 2007 |
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| Horticulture in focus at OUTLOOK conference |
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| The apple and pear industry needs to address weaknesses that compromise product quality and price stability, including a lack of transparency in the supply chain and inadequate systems to ensure appropriate quality–reward relationships, according to Darral Ashton, Chairman of Apple and Pear Australia Limited. "Limited formal business management skills, the risk of pest incursions, and increasing labour and business costs, are barriers and threats to the increased production of apples and pears in Australia," Mr Ashton said. Mr Ashton supported future focus in the areas of differentiation and the development of suitable trees for specific regions, increasing the areas of intensive orchard plantings and further establishing export markets with the support of promotion. Judith Damiani, Executive Director, Australian Citrus Growers spoke about the challenges in developing new markets. "Gaining access to new export markets takes time and is costly, particularly in addressing quarantine and sanitary issues," she said. Using China as a case study Ms Damiani supported the cooperation between countries for mutually beneficial citrus trade. Anthony Houston, Managing Director of Houston"s Farm told conference delegates that the future success of business is based on product quality and innovation in servicing its markets, which can be achieved by understanding the needs of the consumer. "Building a good team in and around your business is a key factor for success," Mr Houston concluded. |
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| Copies of available speakers' presentation and papers are available at ABARE's OUTLOOK website, OUTLOOK 2007 or phone 02 6272 2010. For general media enquiries, contact Maree Finnegan, Media Coordinator on 02 6272 2260 or email mfinnegan@abare.gov.au. |
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