SA agriculture industry reports record revenue in PIRSA scorecard, despite drought
South Australia had its lowest rainfall on record last year but that hasn’t stopped the state’s agriculture sector setting a record for revenue.
SA Business
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South Australia’s primary industries generated record revenue of $15.2 billion last financial year, despite the challenge of drought.
These are findings from the 2018–19 Primary Industries Scorecard, released on Monday to coincide with the first AdvanceAg showcase at the Adelaide Showgrounds. It aims to help producers adopt the latest in on-farm innovation to help promote growth in the sector.
Key findings include:
THE value of primary horticulture production exceeded a billion dollars for the first time, $1.08 billion. Processed horticultural value was $1.76 billion.
INCREASED almond production, up 21 per cent, was a key driver behind the rise in horticulture values.
CHINA was the biggest international customer, importing goods worth $1.3 billion.
BELGIUM was one of SA’s top 10 export markets, driven by canola and wine purchases.
THERE was moderate improvement in the dairy industry, mainly due to a 10 per cent rise in farmgate milk prices.
SEAFOOD production revenue rose slightly, with southern bluefin tuna and abalone exports each up 8 per cent.
Overall, agriculture, food, wine and forestry exports represented 47 per cent of the state’s total merchandise exports in 2018–19.
Exports increased for dairy by 25 per cent, wool by 19 per cent, horticulture by 12 per cent, seafood by 11 per cent and wine by 3.5 per cent. But strong demand from NSW and Queensland for SA grain, amid severe drought, led to grain exports reducing by 50 per cent.
Primary Industries Minister Tim Whetstone said the growth in value of farm product was testament to the innovation and skills of SA farmers.
“Our primary industries and agribusiness sector is the biggest contributor to the state’s economy,” he said.
“Almost 116,000 jobs are supported by primary industries and processing”.
One of the exhibitors at Monday’s AdvanceAg showcase at the Adelaide Showgrounds, Emmetts precision agriculture manager Matt Burns, will be showcasing the latest technology. Drones and weather stations are just two examples.
“Improvements in agricultural technology and also farm management are helping us through tough seasons,” he said.