Australia's almond crops might have been drowning in Victoria a few weeks ago, but the country's industry body has announced forecasts of an 18.3% production rise in 2011 to 45,400 metric tons (MT).

"Increasing orchard plantings, a record crop, growing global demand and an appreciation of the quality of the Australian product indicates a bright future for the almond industry," the Australian Almond Board (ABA) announced in a release.

The forecast will be a positive one for new CEO Ross Skinner, who was appointed to the role in November and has made optimistic announcements for the national export industry.

"The Australian almond industry has undergone rapid expansion in the past few years and it is forecast to become the world’s second largest almond producer by 2015. It is a very exciting time for me to join the ABA and I look forward to working with the team at furthering the industry both in Australia and overseas,"  he said.

Meanwhile, media agency ABC reported Australia's pear industry is having its best season in 12 years, with rains creating ideal growing conditions in the state of Victoria.

Victoria produces 90% of Australia's pear crop, the story reported.

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Source: www.freshfruitportal.com