Moves to allow Pomelo imports from Vietnam has seen several concerns raised, something Citrus Industry officials say could impact the Riverland’s over $300M citrus industry.
Citrus Australia has now called on the Minister for Agriculture and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to pause the market access application for pomelo from Vietnam, citing biosecurity risks that require further scientific assessment.
CEO, Nathan Hancock said the industry strongly supports mutually beneficial trade and recognises the importance of open, rules-based market access. However, he stressed that Australia’s biosecurity must not be compromised.
Australia cannot afford to take unnecessary risks with citrus canker,” Mr Hancock said. “We are confident that a clear, science-based review is the right path forward for both countries. This is not about stopping trade; it is about ensuring trade is safe.”
The Riverland produces around 25% of the nation’s citrus crop, however nationally very few Pomelo crops are grown.
