The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, in partnership with International Tropical Fruits Network (TFNet), is proud to host the International Symposium on Tropical Fruits 2025 from 23-25 September 2025 at Charles Darwin University's Danala Education and Community Precinct, Darwin.
Held under the theme: Advancing the global production and trade of minor tropical fruits for sustainable markets, the symposium will promote awareness of lesser-known tropical fruits, address industry challenges and explore strategies to improve market access and global trade.
Acting Chief Executive of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jed Matz, said fruits like jackfruit and rambutan are gaining global recognition for their unique flavours, nutritional value and commercial potential.
"The symposium will highlight the growing importance and exciting potential of these unique fruits in the global marketplace and unlock new opportunities." Mr Matz said.
This marks the first time the International Tropical Fruits Network will convene in the Northern Territory, following last year's symposium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
TFNet CEO Muhamed Salim bin Mohd Ali noted that when people think of tropical fruits, a few stars dominate the stage - banana, pineapple, mango, papaya, and more recently, avocado.
"According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, a total of 254 million tons of these major fruits were produced globally in 2023. But beneath the spotlight lies a quieter diversity - jackfruit, mangosteen, rambutan, longan, soursop, durian, and many others.
"For too long, these 'minor' tropical fruits have been underestimated. Yet, I believe they may hold the key to answering the future global demand."
The symposium will be delivered in-person and online symposium with a full program of technical presentations, farm visits and workshops.
ISTF2025 is presented in collaboration with the Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Northern Territory Farmers Association, Charles Darwin University - Research Institute for Northern Agriculture, and Agri Malaysia.
