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Export Market The growth of the Australian asparagus industry has been largely due to export sales. In 1998 and 1999 Australia exported a major proportion of total asparagus production, representing a significant increase on the two previous years. Export volume to Japan and Taiwan between 1997/1998 and 1998/1999 increased by 43%. In much of Europe white asparagus is still the favoured type, although there is an increasing demand for green asparagus because of changing tastes and more awareness of its nutritional and health benefits, particularly by the younger generation. The Japanese consider green asparagus a popular vegetable where it is used for evening meals, in restaurants and as a special delicacy at wedding feasts. Increased demand for Australian asparagus also exists in Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore where consumers can afford to purchase high-value food products. In addition, demand for asparagus in other Asian markets is expected to increase as disposable incomes rise and supermarkets expand, thereby facilitating the marketing of perishable produce. Japan is a key market for Australian asparagus, with more than 85% of exports of asparagus from Victoria destined for the Japanese market. Export shipments are packed to meet consumer demand with wooden containers of bunched asparagus used for consignments to South East Asia. “Did you know we are able to cut asparagus here in the morning, pack it and have it in Japanese supermarkets the next day?” Kevin Hope, President, Australian Asparagus Council | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Back | Home | About Asparagus | Recipes & Tips | What's New | From the Chefs | Supplying Asparagus | Contact us | Site Map Copyright© Australian Asparagus Council. Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure that the information on this website is correct and up to date, no representation is made or warranty given (either express or implied) as to the completeness, accuracy or currency of the information that it contains. Last updated August 2007 | |
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