Due to the vast extent of the country, Australia has been a net exporter of food and agricultural produce with an estimated export value of 48,7 bn AUD in 2016-17, especially Australia crops and meat and dairy products form the majority of exports. However, Australia also offers great opportunities for German food manufacturers, with German beverages, processed foods and confectionary becoming increasingly popular amongst the Australian consumers.
In addition, German manufacturers of agricultural machinery and equipment can profit from the status of Australia being the breadbasket of Asia’s expanding middle class. Since the local manufacturing capability is limited, farms and agricultural establishments are more and more reliant on imported equipment, machinery and tools.
Australian made food and beverages are internationally renowned for their excellent quality and high standrds. Apart from the strict food standards, which are defined in the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), Australia is very concernced about food safety and biohazards and sets out rules in order to protect ist people and its ecosystem. In order to keep away non-domestic pests and diseases, the Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has established rigorous import and quarantine regulations for food and agricultural products.
In order to avoid seizure, return or even desctruction of products, sufficient research on restrictions and provisions should be conducted before exporting products to Australia.