Over the past financial year, Hort Innovation has made significant strides in strengthening Australia's horticultural relationship with Japan - one of our most valuable and complementary trading partners. Through a series of strategic initiatives, high-level engagements, and immersive showcases, Hort Innovation has built trusted, long-term partnerships with industry stakeholders in Japan to lay the groundwork for expanded market access and long-term commercial success for Australian growers.
Showcasing sustainability and innovation in Osaka
In June 2025, Hort Innovation was invited to participate in the World Expo Osaka 2025, a global trade showcase in Osaka, Japan. This high-profile event provided a platform for Australia to present its horticulture sector to Japanese stakeholders and potential partners.
Anthony Kachenko, GM Sustainability and Production at Hort Innovation and Henrick Christiansen, MD at MacField Farms and macadamia grower, represented the horticulture industry and led a dedicated horticulture day attended by around 50 delegates. Their presentation focused on sustainability credentials-highlighting Hort Innovation's Sustainability Framework and the community checks embedded in every project. Henrick offered insights into on-farm sustainability practices, including soil health and the protection of natural assets like the Great Barrier Reef.
"The response from Japanese attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with discussions centering on relationship-building and the shared value of sustainability. This opportunity gave us a chance to position Australian growers and our increasing importance on environmental responsibility and circular economy principles as global leaders," said Kachenko.
The trade show also offered valuable insights with Anthony Kachenko adding: "It stood out at the expo that every country across the world is thinking about sustainability and the future - how today's actions shape tomorrow's outcomes. Australia's pavilion proudly showcased our leadership in sustainability, and that's something our growers should be very proud of."
MAFF visit: Strengthening government-to-government ties
In June 2025, Hort Innovation, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), hosted a high-level delegation from Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF). The visit was designed to explore counter-seasonal export opportunities and deepen bilateral collaboration.
The delegation included senior officials from MAFF's Export and International Affairs Bureau and focused on understanding Australia's horticultural capabilities firsthand. Over the course of the week-long tour, Japanese officials met with growers and industry experts, gaining insights into Australia's world-class food safety systems, quality assurance programs, and innovative production methods.
From farm to plate: Building relationships through shared experiences
A cornerstone of this year's success in Japan has been the Australian Horticulture Showcase-a multi-faceted initiative designed to deepen relationships and promote Australian produce in-market. This effort began with an inbound mission in October 2024, where Japanese industry leaders were welcomed to Australia to experience our horticulture sector firsthand.
The visit focused on showcasing "Australian horticulture on a plate," offering delegates the opportunity to meet growers, tour farms, and enjoy fresh produce in its local setting. This immersive experience helped build trust and appreciation for the quality, safety, and sustainability of Australian horticulture.
That trust was further reinforced through two major events in Japan: Taste of the Land Down Under in the Land of the Rising Sun (March 2025) and Taste the Wonders of Australia (April 2025). These events, delivered through the Australia-Japan Horticulture Showcase and the Australian Food and Wine Collaboration Group, brought together growers, exporters, government representatives, and Japanese buyers to celebrate the best of Australian produce.
Many of the Japanese attendees had participated in the October inbound mission, and their return for these events signaled a deepening interest in long-term collaboration. The events not only showcased premium fruits, vegetables, and nuts, but also highlighted the shared values of quality, innovation, and sustainability that underpin the Australia-Japan partnership.
Table grapes gaining ground
Among the standout success stories of exports to Japan in FY25 is the growth of Australian table grape exports. Following a market access win during the financial year, the Japanese market is now open to all table grape varietals coming out of Australia. This was a key win for the table grapes market access and trade development project (TG23000) and the sector.
Off the back of this decision, tables grapes now account for 13% of total horticultural exports to the country and have become a symbol of what's possible when quality, timing, and trust align.
Thanks to Australia's counter-seasonal advantage, table grapes arrive in Japan when local supply is low, offering retailers and consumers a premium product during off-peak months. The consistent quality, attractive presentation, and strong food safety credentials have made Australian grapes a favourite in Japanese markets.
This success is not just about volume - it's about value. Growers are seeing better returns, and the reputation of Australian grapes is helping to open doors for other fresh produce categories.
Hort Innovation is working to continue growing this sector in Japan via the table grape export marketing program (TG24501), by raising broader awareness in market.
Looking ahead: A future built on trust and quality
The work done by Hort Innovation over the past year is already delivering tangible benefits for Australian growers. From high-level government engagement to immersive in-market experiences, these efforts are building a foundation of trust, sustainability, and shared value with Japan.
As the global market becomes more competitive and discerning, Australia's ability to demonstrate environmental responsibility, product integrity, and consistent supply will be key. Japan's focus on the circular economy and sustainable sourcing aligns perfectly with the values and practices of Australian horticulture.
For growers, this means more than just access-it means opportunity. Opportunity to diversify markets, increase profitability, and be part of a global movement that values quality, sustainability, and innovation.
