The University of Tasmania has been awarded $455,000 to develop a new digital solution that will help promote and improve the traceability of exported Australian fruit.
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the funding was part of the Australian Government's $7 million Traceability Grants Program.
"This is yet another example of innovation that reinforces and promotes Australia's reputation as a producer of clean, green and safe food.
"The cloud-based technology will allow easy tracing of Australian produce along the supply chain, making it simpler to extract information that supports its authenticity and compliance.
"The app will also include a function that will further support the digital promotion of Australian fruit and vegetables overseas.
"Modern, accurate, and timely traceability systems assure our trading partners and consumers that our fantastic produce is of the highest quality and safety standards.
"To ensure a digital solution that is fit for purpose, horticultural supply chain partners will be actively involved in the design process.
"The system will also be built to ensure it can be adapted to other Australian fresh produce supply chains with minimal modification.
"Key importers from Shanghai markets have already expressed enthusiasm for the market advantage a digital promotion app will provide.
"As we respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's more important than ever to ensure farmers can put their best foot forward and effectively market the quality of their outstanding produce."
The Traceability Grants Program will invest $7 million in grants over two rounds until June 2023.
