CITRUS Australia will be taking its growers to the global cutting edge on trends impacting supply costs, likely influences on domestic and international markets, competitor analysis and sustainability.
All this is on the agenda at next month’s 2023 Citrus Australia Market Outlook Forum in Mildura.
Citrus Australia chief executive Nathan Hancock says after facing some of the most challenging years in recent history, citrus growers will be encouraged to “Review, Respond and Relaunch” at its edp Australia-sponsored forum, March 7-9.
Nathan says the forum program, with a line-up of international speakers, has been tailored to provide growers with the latest market intel from across the globe.
“We’re excited to bring international speakers to the Murray Valley, it’s easily accessible from Queensland and Western Australia and driving distance from the Riverland and Riverina,” he explains.
“In our businesses market intelligence is what creates the upper hand.
“Tough seasonal conditions, supply chain disruption and lockdowns during the past three years have placed stress on the majority of Australian citrus businesses.
“We encourage all growers to attend the forum and make the most of this opportunity to embrace this valuable information as they respond to the challenges of the past three years and take advantage of the opportunities ahead.”
International keynote speakers include Paul Hardman, from South Africa’s Citrus Research International, who will provide insights into the factors behind the aggressive growth of the South African citrus industry, one of Australia’s primary southern hemisphere competitors.
Paul will also provide an overview of how global sustainability measures are impacting growers, packers and brand owners in the southern hemisphere, and how they are responding.
Charif Cristian Carvajal, chair of the Southern Hemisphere Association of Fresh Fruit Exporters, will provide an overview of southern hemisphere production and export trends, and how this could shape opportunities for Australian exports.
David Porta, of Spanish packaging company Giro will share insights into the latest sustainability trends in packaging from Spain, in light of increased demands from consumers.
Nathan says the two-day forum will provide ample opportunity for growers and marketers to network with their peers, talk directly with all speakers and assess the latest in farm management technology from exhibitors.
“Peer-to-peer networking is beneficial to every business and I encourage everyone to make the trip to Mildura to take advantage of it in their own backyard,” he says.
“Growers relished the opportunity to network with their peers from around the country at our forum on the Sunshine Coast last year following the removal of COVID lockdowns.”
The Market Outlook Forum will be held at Willow & Ivie and the EE Muir & Sons Hall of Fame Gala Dinner on Wednesday, March 8 will be held at the Magenta Woolshed at the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens.
“We’re showing Mildura in a whole new light and we can’t wait to share it with everyone,” Nathan says.
