Australia’s unique geography and commitment to quality are potent drivers of the nation’s A$8.6 billion horticulture industry. Australia has an international reputation as a reliable supplier of some of the best fresh horticultural produce in the world. This reputation is enhanced by clean and green credentials forged by a world-class food safety management, quality assurance systems and the environmental stewardship of our farmers and land managers. Strong safety and quality controls have boosted demand for Australia’s horticultural products in 2013 as growers exported nearly two million tonnes worth A$2.1 billion, up 7 per cent from a year earlier. This figure includes 440,000 tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetable exports worth A$703.5 million. Australia exports more than 90 fresh fruit and vegetable products to more than 60 countries. The largest destinations are Hong Kong, Japan, the United States and Singapore, although many other countries and regions such as the Middle East, Pacific Islands and Europe are significant destinations for different types of fruit and vegetables. Australia’s large geographical area covers a variety of geological and climatic zones, ensuring the availability of a broad range of fruit and vegetables for export virtually year round. In the case of produce with shorter growing seasons, Australia’s Southern Hemisphere location means that spring/summer occurs from September to February and autumn/ winter from March to August, allowing Australia to provide counter-seasonal fruit and vegetables to Northern Hemisphere markets. Australia’s position as an island continent has generated a long history of strict controls and research on pest and disease-resistant fruit and vegetables, as well as the declaration of pest-free zones within some parts of the country. Proximity to Asia shortens transport times, allowing Australia to deliver fresher, more attractive fruit and vegetables to these markets by sea and air, often supplying in counterseasonal months and in times of short supply. Fresh produce can be packed and airfreighted to Asian markets within 48-60 hours from harvest. Produce sent by sea in refrigerated containers can be in Asian markets within 12-20 days of harvest. Traceability and quality assurance systems are compulsory in all export packing houses. Refrigerated storage and trucking to port are used in all production regions. Modern and efficient port facilities provide prompt delivery of consignments to export destinations. In addition, Australia’s strength in research and development as well as its commitment to ongoing R&D and new production techniques assist the nation’s horticulture industry in meeting the changing requirements of dynamic customer markets. This ensures customers receive a product that is not only good to eat, but is also good for the environment. This export capability statement provides an overview of Australian capabilities across a range of horticultural products. It includes information on seasonal availability, packaging, transport and the best months of the year to contact suppliers to ensure orders can be met.