Arabfields, Farah Benali, Economic Correspondent in China — The Australian table grape industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in recent years, rebounding strongly from the challenges posed by the global pandemic and shifting market dynamics. Last season’s exports reached an impressive 148,300 tonnes, marking a 30 per cent increase year-on-year and coming remarkably close to the pre-Covid record of 152,500 tonnes achieved in the 2019/20 season. This recovery underscores the sector’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and international trade opportunities, particularly in Asia, where demand for high-quality, premium fruit continues to rise. A pivotal driver behind this success has been the expanded access to the Japanese market, with full varietal approval leading to a nearly 300 per cent surge in shipments to 9,500 tonnes, elevating Japan to joint third place among Australia’s key export destinations alongside Korea and the Philippines, trailing only Indonesia in second and China at the top.

As the 2025/26 season approaches, optimism abounds within the industry, fueled by favorable early indicators and a strategic focus on quality and marketing. Australian Table Grape Association CEO Jeff Scott has expressed confidence on the eve of the current harvest, noting that the grapes appear exceptionally promising with no significant issues reported thus far. Although slightly cooler weather may delay the start by a modest margin, the developing sugars and vibrant colors signal a robust crop ahead, positioning growers for what could be another standout year. This positive outlook builds directly on the momentum from the previous season, where commitment to excellence paid substantial dividends, and it aligns with broader trends showing Australia’s production reaching over 230,000 tonnes in the 2024/25 period, a 20 per cent rise that marked the second-highest on record.

The breakthrough in Japan represents more than just a volume increase, it highlights the industry’s dedication to meeting exacting customer standards and fostering enduring relationships with importers. The first full season of access to new varieties proved outstanding, prompting expectations of further growth as Japanese importers signal their intent to prioritize Australian fruit. Feedback from recent trade briefings in Japan has been overwhelmingly encouraging, with some buyers committing to favor Australia’s offerings due to their superior quality and reliability. This success stems from a rigorous emphasis on education and communication, where growers and exporters ensure that only fruit meeting precise specifications for size, variety, and condition is shipped, thereby minimizing risks and building trust across markets.

Such a quality-first philosophy extends beyond Japan to all export destinations, proving instrumental in navigating the complexities of international trade. By refusing to compromise when certain criteria cannot be met, the industry avoids potential disappointments and reinforces its reputation for consistency, a factor that has resonated strongly with buyers in competitive Asian hubs. Growers’ steadfast commitment to producing top-tier fruit has not only sustained demand but also enhanced profitability, encouraging ongoing investments in best practices and innovation.

Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season and beyond, the future appears particularly bright for Australian table grapes, with several converging factors poised to drive sustained expansion. The Australian Table Grape Association’s continued leadership in the marketing program, now in its second year of direct management, provides greater autonomy and agility in promoting the country’s premium produce. Pre-season trade seminars held in key markets such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan attracted strong attendance, often exceeding 40 participants per event, facilitating valuable networking between growers, exporters, and local stakeholders. Planned visits to Thailand and the Philippines in 2026 will further extend these efforts, tailoring in-store promotions and partnerships to suit individual market needs in collaboration with retailers and agencies.

This proactive approach is expected to amplify visibility and consumer engagement, capitalizing on Asia’s evolving preferences for flavorful, seedless, and novel varieties that Australia is increasingly well-positioned to supply. With new plantings maturing and neutral weather forecasts supporting stable yields, production volumes could climb further, potentially surpassing recent highs and pushing exports toward or even beyond pre-pandemic peaks. Japan’s market, in particular, holds immense untapped potential, with projections suggesting volumes could rise significantly as importers integrate more Australian options into their portfolios, possibly adding tens of millions in value over the coming years.

Diversification away from reliance on any single market, such as China where self-sufficiency is growing, will be bolstered by strengthening ties in Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia alike. Emerging opportunities in regions with rising middle classes and appetite for premium fresh produce align perfectly with Australia’s counter-seasonal advantage and pristine growing conditions. As global table grape trade recovers and shifts toward proprietary varieties that offer better flavor profiles and shelf life, Australian growers are at the forefront, benefiting from investments in traceability, sustainability, and consumer-focused innovation.

In the longer term, these foundations suggest the industry is on track for consistent double-digit growth in export volumes through the latter half of the decade, potentially reclaiming and exceeding the 2019/20 record within the next few seasons if weather remains cooperative and marketing initiatives yield their full impact. Enhanced market access achievements, like the varietal expansion in Japan, combined with a reputation for unmatched quality, position Australia as a preferred supplier in an increasingly discerning global marketplace. The result will likely be not only higher tonnages but also elevated pricing for premium offerings, delivering stronger returns to growers and solidifying the sector’s role as a cornerstone of Australian horticulture. With enthusiasm running high and strategies firmly in place, the Australian table grape story is one of renewed vigor and promising horizons, ready to deliver even greater successes in the seasons to come.