Overview
The Australian agribusiness sector generates agricultural production of approximately A$30 billion in gross value and employs close to 385,000 people. There are around 120,000 commercial farms spread throughout Australia each contributing to agriculture’s share of Australian GDP which is around three per cent.
In 2005-06 the Australian agriculture industry accounted for a quarter of Australian merchandise exports at a value of approximately A$26 billion. In total, around 60 per cent of commodities produced on Australian farms are exported yearly. Sectors with the highest proportion of exports include wool, cotton, beef, dairy products, wine grapes, sugar and wheat.
What are the key opportunities?
Key international opportunities for the agribusiness industry include agricultural machinery and technology, animal genetics, equine, cut-flowers, agricultural services, and natural fibres.
Where are the key opportunities?
There has been a large shift in the importance of Asia, the Americas and Middle East to Australian agricultural exports. For example, the Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement is providing Australian agribusiness exports with access to increased international market opportunities.
Priority markets with the greatest opportunities for Australian agribusiness include:
- USA
- Japan
- Argentina
- Thailand
- India
Please see the list of industry country profiles for the agribusiness industry at the end of this overview.
How can we help you?
With a network of over 140 overseas locations in more than 60 countries backed by highly experienced and qualified staff, Austrade provides a number of dedicated and tailored services to Australian exporters.
Austrade offers practical advice, market intelligence and ongoing support (including financial) to Australian businesses looking to develop international markets. Austrade also provides advice and guidance on overseas investment and joint venture opportunities, and helps put Australian businesses in contact with potential overseas investors.
For further information please contact Austrade on 13 28 78 or email info@austrade.gov.au
Useful contacts
Government contacts
Australian Government Agriculture Portal – www.agriculture.gov.au
Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics – www.abare.gov.au
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry – www.daff.gov.a
General industry contacts
Australian Flower Export Council – www.australianflowers.org
Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia – www.tractormachinery.com.au
Last updated: 12 Jul 2007
|