Only a few citrus-growing areas in Australia have been granted access to export to the US market. Only specific areas such as Riverland, Riverina, and Sunraysia that have had long-term fruit fly-free status export fruit to the US.
Citrus Australia reckons that up to 30% of Australia’s total citrus production area is excluded from the US market. Most of the citrus exports are destined for Asian markets that are not as lucrative. Growers are missing out on approximately $150 million annually in export earnings.
Western Australia is seeking new market access to the US as production expands. Negotiations have been underway for close to three decades to gain the much-needed market access. Negotiations have mainly focused on cold treatment for fruit fly. Citrus exports need to be refrigerated at or below 3°C for 12-20 days to kill all fruit fly eggs and larvae.
The US Department of Agriculture undertook a risk assessment in 2015 that favored Australia. A plan was developed in 2021 to authorize Australian citrus into the US from other mainland areas, but nothing has materialized.
The citrus industry remains optimistic that access can be granted to send the next crop in 2027 to the US market.
