The Albanese Labor Government is helping to deliver more opportunities for Australian citrus growers with new export arrangements delivering lower costs and less red tape when exporting lemons to Korea.
These new arrangements will mean Queensland producers are able to access this market for the first time, following updates to import requirements.
The changes come after the Korean Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency finalised revised import requirements for Australian lemons to remove Korea's long-standing pre-clearance requirements for Australian lemon exports.
Korean quarantine officers will no longer be required to undertake pre-clearance inspections in Australia prior to export, and will maintain Korea's biosecurity protections through existing export certification and compliance arrangements.
The new import requirements will also enable Queensland lemon exporters to access the Korean market thanks to the improved arrangements.
Australian lemon exports to Korea have risen from $295,000 in 2021-22 to $1.78 million in 2025-26.
Under the Albanese Labor Government, the value of Australia's agricultural production has increased by 15 per cent, and more than 285 market access improvements have been delivered, supporting the continued diversification of Australia's agricultural trade.
Agriculture, fisheries and forestry exports are forecast to reach over $80 billion in 2026-27 - the third highest result, with strong demand for Australia's world-class food and fibre.
Over the past year, the Government has secured new market access opportunities in key markets including Vietnam, Indonesia, Canada and India, supporting exports of products such as blueberries, apples, rendered products and organic goods.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP:
"Korea is an important trading partner for Australia and we welcome these new arrangements, which will benefit Australian growers and exporters.
"The revised import requirements will provide greater flexibility for growers and export facilities seeking to access the Korean market while also supporting future growth opportunities for Australian lemon exports.
"These changes are also a win for Queensland lemon growers and exporters, who are now able to access the Korean market.
"Our Government will continue working around the clock to deliver more opportunities for Australian farmers who export our world-class produce."
