The initiative now has four years of solid data to help growers and exporters alike stay ahead of the curve as pressures mount from destination markets over carbon emissions.

Sales have been so strong that the company has had to delay the commercial launch of its breakthrough finger lime pearl citrus caviar product.

"Tropical Race IV has forced us into that situation," says researcher David Peasley, who is trialing some attractive and tasty banana varieties in northern New South Wales.

The Phoenix-based importer, a Mexican blueberry supplier and a Turkish vegetable exporter are in hot water with the USDA.

A Chinese importer and exporter says a proliferation of good quality, domestic fruit this summer has made it challenging for traders of commodities like New Zealand apples and Egyptian oranges.