Japanese Delegates Explore Aussie Horticulture

Three officials from Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) went to Australia in June to investigate possibilities for counter-seasonal horticulture exports

Their trip included interviews with Australian farmers and horticulturists to evaluate possible future partnerships. The tour included significant MAFF personalities, including Deputy Director-General Katsuhiro Saka, as well as others from other departments. This trip built upon earlier interactions between the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and the horticultural industry, including a successful Australia-Japan Showcase Dinner in Tokyo in March 2025. With exports of US$175.6mn in 2025, Japan is Australia's third-biggest trade partner in horticulture, highlighting the importance of the Japan-Australia connection. Their collaborative seasonal and counter-seasonal nature struck him.

Brett Fifield, CEO of Hort Innovation, said, “Japan is Australia’s third largest trading partner in horticulture, with exports valued at US$175.6mn in 2025. Our partnership in horticulture has been highly complementary and counter-seasonal, allowing us to support each other’s markets effectively, particularly in the months when Japan’s significant domestic horticulture production slows due to offseason.”  

Fifield added, “On this recent visit, we were proud to showcase Australian horticulture, supported by stringent quality assurance programs, first-rate food safety systems, eye-catching branding strategies, and a strong reputation for safe, clean, and innovative agricultural products to our Japanese visitors. Off the back of the visit, one thing is clear: we are deeply invested in each other’s success and building our relationship further, and we look forward to seeing our growers benefit from this opportunity."

Australian horticulture was highlighted during the visit, with an emphasis on food safety and quality assurance to strengthen their image. Among significant exports to Japan are macadamias, table grapes, and oranges. DAFF's Al Campbell remarked that this cooperation strengthens the horticulture industries of both countries, as the visit coincided with a new statement meant to improve Agri-Food Value Chains between the two countries. The goal of the project is to link industry leaders from Japan and Australia so that they can promote relationships, information sharing, and business prospects.

Al Campbell, First Assistant Secretary for Trade and International at DAFF stated, “Japan is an important trading partner for Australia, and this visit has made the collaboration between our respective horticulture industries even stronger. By continuing to engage with our Japanese counterparts, we can support expanded trade opportunities and provide the best outcomes for both Australian exporters and Japanese consumers.”