Pineapple growers raise biosecurity concerns as Asian imports considered

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in Australia has released a report assessing the potential risks of importing pineapples from India and Indonesia. The draft report is open for consultation until September 14, 2026, and evaluates the safety of importing decrowned pineapples if strict biosecurity measures are enforced to control eight identified pests, primarily mealy bugs.

Australian growers argue that local production meets domestic demand and that importing fruit could expose local growers to new pests and diseases, which they may struggle to control. Colin Hawken, a second-generation grower, expressed concern that the imported fruit could bring in diseases not present in Australia, for which there are no existing treatments.

The federal department noted that while Australia has trade obligations under the World Trade Organization, it does not need to assess the economic impact of additional market competition. Instead, the department focuses on identifying and managing pest risks. Australia currently allows imports from the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Taiwan, with Malaysia's imports pending finalization.

In 2025, Australia imported approximately 18 tonnes of pineapples from Taiwan, with no imports from other countries in the past five years. Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers CEO Scott Kompo-Harms emphasized the importance of protecting Australia's biosecurity, which is a key asset. He stressed the need for long-term adherence to control measures and regular monitoring.

The report suggests treatments like fumigation, irradiation, unit inspections, and traceability to the farm and packing houses. While both Indonesia and India produce more pineapples than Australia, growers believe domestic supply is sufficient to meet local demand. Australian farms produced 68,373 tonnes of pineapples in the 2024/25 financial year, with most sold as fresh fruit.

Despite short-term price premiums, other times of the year, production costs exceed revenue. Australian Pineapples' chairman, Scott Maxwell, warned that imports could harm the industry and lead to job losses. The industry plans to submit a formal response to the draft report during the consultation period, which ends on September 14.

The final report is expected in the second half of 2027, and even if imports are recommended, both countries would need to implement all required biosecurity controls before trade can commence.