An agreement on biosecurity protocols means Queensland melons will be allowed back into New Zealand
Transtasman trade was halted in 2019 as a result of the detection of cucumber green mottle mosaic virus on melons exported from Queensland.
Queensland accounts for a third of Australia’s watermelon production, 38% of rockmelon harvest, and is a major contributor to the $39.3 million melon export industry.
The agreement came about following talks between the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, Queensland authorities and Australian industry.
They were able to reach a workable solution on biosecurity protocols, which is acceptable to all stakeholders.
Johnathon Davey from Melons Australia welcomed the news.
“This will mean getting melon exports back on track and a more normal future,” Mr Davey said.
And Paul McLaughlin from Melons Australia said the timing was perfect with the upcoming harvest.
“It’s back to business for the growers in Queensland who missed out last year,” Mr McLaughlin said.
An Industry Advice Notice has been issued to provide guidance to growers on export requirements.
