Hort Connections: Focus on future opportunities for horticulture

Despite the issues plaguing industry, there are opportunities abound for Australia’s horticulture sector in 2024.

High-value export markets, premium produce, and sluggish vegetable production globally could present opportunities for Australia’s horticulture sector, according to one industry expert.

Rabobank associate analyst Pia Piggott said horticulture exports were growing at a faster rate than production, but opportunities awaited on the horizon for fruit and nut markets.

And the trend could present opportunities for Australia’s horticulture industry to offset recent years of input pressures and supply chain woes.

“Global production is at about 1.2 per cent growth per year, and we’re seeing export and trade growing at about 3 per cent,” Ms Piggott said.

“It’s moving towards exporting from low-cost countries, and decreased production in high-cost production countries, like the European Union and the United States.”

While Australia was not a large player when it came to vegetable exports, Ms Piggott said there were opportunities ahead for Australian produces in valuable fruit exports and tree nuts.

“We’re definitely seeing those sectors of horticulture seeing export growth more than vegetables have,” Ms Piggott said.

“In terms of vegetable exports, it’s a competitive landscape. But with the fruit and nuts, there’s that quality association with Australia, and the demand for higher prices.”

Ms Piggott spoke at the Hort Connections event, held in Melbourne this week, with the conference focusing on exploring technology, information, and connections to adapt to the industry’s ever-changing needs and challenges.

AusVeg chief executive Michael Coote said the issues facing vegetable growers and the wider horticulture industry was been “well publicised”, citing labour costs, compliance burdens, and troubles securing farm gate prices all contributing factors. 


“The fact so many delegates, and particularly growers, have been drawn to Hort Connections highlights how important events like this are, particularly in light of the many challenges the industry is facing,” Mr Coote said.

“Hort Connections is not only an opportunity for growers to keep up with the latest trends, innovations and technology to enhance their business profitability, but also a chance to connect and network as an entire industry experiencing some tough times.”