Chinese demand for cherries blossoms

ONE of the state’s biggest ­cherry producers says its ­exports to China have soared 50 per cent from last season.

Australia China Business Council and NAB China trade report. Two local members of the Australia China Business Council Amy Chang, left, and Angela Yao with the trade report synopsis

AS the Tasmanian branch of Australia China Business Council prepares to launch its trade report tonight, one of the state’s biggest ­cherry producers has said its ­exports to China have soared 50 per cent from last season.

Reid Fruits marketing and business development manager Lucy Gregg said a combination of factors had helped grow the business. Tasmania exports 320 tonnes of cherries to China.

“We are developing strong commercial relationships and we had a bigger crop available this year,” Ms Gregg said.

Chinese demand for premium Australian food such as beef has also ­surged in the past two years.

Australia China Business Council Tasmania branch president Sir Guy Green said the report was a comprehensive and practical resource.

The council has more than 1500 representatives from more than 750 Australian companies.

“This is a timely report that should be read by every Tasmanian company or organisation doing business or contemplating doing business with China,” Sir Guy said.

“It combines analysis of statistical data with surveys of over 200 firms doing business with China and a range of ­in-depth case studies.

“The report’s conclusion that the engine of growth with China is shifting from resources to sectors such as food, tourism and education services  is relevant for Tasmania.

The council’s Tasmanian branch vice-president Martin Rees said dairy exports increased 40 per cent from 2012 to 2013.

Tasmanian branch committee members Angela Yao and Amy Chang would like to see more local businesses get in touch.

“It’s important to get more public interest and understanding of Chinese culture to build a business relationship,” Ms Yao said.

Ms Chang said the visit by President Xi Jinping was valuable because “it brought world attention to Tasmania, which is now quite popular in China ... there is room for more business”.