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The Australian Parliament’s Agriculture and Water Resources Committee has tabled the report of its inquiry into the Australian aquaculture sector: Supporting a strong future for Australian aquaculture.
The report found that Australian aquaculture is a growing industry with a strong positive outlook. Australia’s aquaculture already has a reputation for producing premium product and further improvements will strengthen our market position. The report noted that unlocking the full potential of the industry will require the removal of some barriers to growth.
Committee Chair Mr Rick Wilson MP said, ‘There are many exciting opportunities for the growth of Australian aquaculture. The growth of the industry will help meet domestic demand for seafood, boost exports and provide thousands of additional jobs, especially in regional areas.’
‘Aquaculture, like all industries, has its share of challenges and potential barriers to growth. The Committee has made a number of recommendations with the aim of overcoming these barriers,’ Mr Wilson added.
Mr Wilson notes the confusion caused by current rules around the country of origin labelling of seafood. ‘Consumers are unable to know whether they are buying imported or Australian fish at their local fish and chip shop.’
‘Consumers have the right to know where the seafood they buy originates from. It is nonsensical that there are no country of origin labelling rules for the food service industry, and this must be addressed’.
