Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has announced a $116,000 grant to the Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research to explore new market opportunities for Tasmanian fruit and vegetables in Southeast Asia.

The grant, part of the Promoting Australian Produce initiative, will be a welcome boost for Tasmania growers, still reeling from McCain’s decision to move production to New Zealand late last year. Thirteen other projects will share $1.3 million worth of grants from the government to promote Australia’s food and forest industries.

“Horticulture is a vital part of the Tasmanian economy and its enviable biosecurity status means that Tasmania can export many crops that other parts of Australia can’t,” Mr Burke said.

“This project will provide Tasmanian vegetable growers with a strategic plan to take advantage of new opportunities, such as the Southeast Asian market.”

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