Australian cherry industry targets 50 percent export growth by 2030
Cherry Growers Australia (CGA) has launched a national five-year strategy aimed at increasing domestic consumption, expanding exports, and improving fruit quality standards.
The Strategic Plan 2025–2030 was unveiled at the Cherry 2026 National Cherry Industry Conference in Adelaide, where growers, researchers, and industry stakeholders gathered for a three-day event.
The program sets targets for 2030 that include increasing per-capita cherry consumption by 50 percent, growing export volumes by 50 percent, achieving 90 percent compliance with industry-agreed quality standards, and increasing industry participation in national programs.
“Cherry 2026 is about bringing our industry together to look ahead, and this strategy provides the framework for where we are going over the next five years,” CGA Chair Alison Jones said. “It responds to the challenges we face, while positioning Australian cherries as a premium, competitive and trusted product in domestic and global markets.”
Five pillars for the next era of the Australian cherry sector
The strategy is built around five strategic pillars: Strong Foundations, Production Excellence, Grow Demand, Grow Trade, and Grow Together.
CGA said the plan also aims to strengthen governance and financial sustainability, improve production practices, and the consistency of fruit quality.
CGA CEO Penny Measham said the strategy reflects grower priorities.
“This plan sets clear priorities and targets for the next five years, aligned with our levy investment and industry needs,” said CGA Chief Executive Officer Penny Measham. “We aim to ensure the Australian cherry industry remains resilient and profitable as conditions continue to change.”
Measham said launching the strategy during the national conference highlighted the importance of industry-wide collaboration.
“Cherry 2026 brings together the ideas, research and partnerships shaping our future,” she said. “This strategy ensures we move forward together, with a shared vision and a clear plan to deliver for industry.”
*Main photo by Cherry Growers Australia.
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