Greater Shepparton was on show at Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong last week, the premier trade event for fresh produce across the Asia-Pacific.
Greater Shepparton City Council, alongside Fruit Growers Victoria (FGV), hosted a trade stand across the three-day expo from Wednesday 2 September to Friday 4 September 2026, showcasing the region’s premium produce and connecting local growers and industry with international buyers and export opportunities.
The region was represented, with Deputy Mayor, Councillor Geoff Akers, Director Sustainable Development Geraldine Christou and Events Coordinator Megan Treacy joining FGV Grower Services Manager Michael Crisera, local growers and supply chain representatives as part of the regional delegation.
The three-day event generated more than 40 trade leads, with buyer interest extending across key markets in Asia and the Middle East. Opportunities were identified for a range of locally grown produce including apples, pears, citrus, mandarins and stone fruit.
Cr Geoff Akers said the strong level of commercial interest demonstrated the value of taking the region directly to international markets.
“Asia Fruit Logistica once again demonstrated the importance of horticulture to Greater Shepparton and the strength of our region’s reputation for producing premium-quality fresh produce,” he said.
“It was a really productive three days, with our delegation having direct conversations with buyers, importers and industry representatives from across Asia and the Middle East.”
The event delivered tangible leads and opportunities which can now be pursued by local growers, exporters and industry partners.
Cr Akers said having Greater Shepparton represented alongside growers and Fruit Growers Victoria helped strengthen the region’s presence in a highly competitive international market, while continuing to build the relationships that underpin long-term export opportunities.
Michael Crisera said the expo provided an important platform to connect with industry leaders and showcase the region’s growers on a global scale, with this year’s event particularly significant for apple export opportunities into China.
“The expo provided a valuable opportunity to showcase the Goulburn Valley’s premium fruit, promote the region’s strengths and highlight the quality and dedication of our growers,” he said.
“It was also a fantastic opportunity to develop new business contacts, explore export opportunities and stay up to date with the latest global market trends and innovations.”
Council’s presence at Asia Fruit Logistica forms part of its ongoing work to support Greater Shepparton’s horticulture and food production sectors, strengthen international trade relationships and position the region’s producers for new and emerging export opportunities.
