THE growing demand for Australian agricultural produce in Asia represents a sustainable opportunity for Australian dairy producers and processors, according to National Australia Bank.
Speaking today at International Dairy Week in Tatura, Victoria, the director of NAB?’s Asia Desk, Grant Healy, provided insights into some emerging trends and opportunities.
«NAB has had a presence in Asia since the late 1960s, and the driving force we’re seeing on the ground is rapidly growing demand for Australian agricultural produce and the quality and consistency it represents,» Mr Healy said.
The market for Australian produced infant milk formula, in China in particular, is growing rapidly and this is forecast to continue.
Mr Healy said with China’s 248 million-strong middle class continuing to grow, the buying power of these consumers was driving sustainable demand for quality food products.
«In addition to the dairy export staples of powdered and extended shelf life milk, we’re also seeing an increase in demand for products like cheese, butter and liquid milk,» Mr Healy said.
He said China’s consumers were increasing their demand for protein, including dairy products, and the country was looking to secure food supply with operators and suppliers in Australia.
He said China and Japan represented Australia’s most important dairy export markets, together accounting for almost a third of all Australian dairy exports.
«Realising opportunities in these markets can be a challenge for processors and producers with limited experience or presence in Asian markets,» Mr Healy said.
Source: Straight Furrow
