Tasmanian fruit growers focus on Asia

The three-day event started on September 4 and involved more than 13,000 buyers from more than 46 countries.

Minister for Primary Industries and Water Guy Barnett said this year Fruit Growers Tasmania would partner with Brand Tasmania to exhibit at the event in their own right under the unique Tasmanian banner of 'the quiet pursuit of the extraordinary'.

"Tasmania's brand is one of our state's greatest assets, and Tasmanian growers will affirm their commitment to exceptional quality which is expected to boost export demand for our premium horticultural products," Minister Barnett said.

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"China, including Hong Kong, remains the number one destination for Tasmanian exporters, consuming more than $1.28 billion in our goods over the year to June 2019, with Japan second at $318 million, Taiwan third with $266 million and Malaysia fourth with $255 million.

"Over 80 per cent of Tasmania's exports are consigned to the Asian region, with China and Hong Kong alone accounting for 35 per cent of total Tasmanian exports."

Fruit Growers Tasmania chief executive, Stuart Burgess, said the trade show would be a great way to highlight the industry.

"This event is too important not to attend. It's critically important for the continued expansion and success of Tasmania's fruit and vegetable exports," he said.

"We are particularly excited with how this year's stand will look, with private meeting rooms for clients and opportunities to showcase our fantastic Tasmanian ultra-premium produce."

Despite the continuing unrest in Hong Kong, the organisation had a positive attendee turnout for the trade show event with more than 13,500 trade visitors pouring through the doors.

Visitors found an exhibition that had expanded again, with overall floor space growing by 10 per cent on last year's edition.

Exhibitor numbers saw a further increase to 826 companies.

The number of national pavilions also increased this year.