The event, held on December 5, 2024, brought together importers, retailers, and food industry professionals from across Vietnam to explore the opportunities that Australian cherries offer to the domestic market.

The event includes in-person and online workshops, providing a comprehensive overview of the Australian cherry industry. It also offers attendees the chance to sample the freshest Australian cherries and discover creative culinary applications for this fruit .

With over 40 varieties of cherries grown in Tasmania, New South Wales, South Australia, and Victoria, Australian cherries are renowned for their superior quality, distinctive flavor, and vibrant color. These cherries are grown under ideal conditions and transported fresh to international markets, ensuring they meet the highest standards of taste and safety. Cherry Growers Australia is a leading representative of the Australian cherry industry.

"Vietnam - An important market for Australian cherries"

import, 1.jpg
Representatives from Hort Innovation, Cherry Growers Australia, Austrade, and nearly 30 representatives from leading importers and retailers in Vietnam were present. Photo: Hort Innovation

Attendees heard presentations from representatives of Cherry Growers Australia (CGA), Hort Innovation, and Austrade, sharing useful information about the Australian cherry industry; including production processes, export opportunities, and the growing demand for Australian cherries in Vietnam. Industry experts highlighted the superior quality of Australian cherries with their characteristic ruby ​​red color, natural sweetness, and the high food safety standards of the Australian agricultural sector. This provided attendees with in-depth information, giving them a clearer understanding of the opportunities that Australian cherries offer.

“We are delighted with the success of the event and the positive feedback from attendees,” said Chris Lethbridge, Trade Development Coordinator at Cherry Growers Australia. “Vietnam is an important market for Australian cherries, and this event provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase the unique characteristics of our fruit while building valuable relationships between Australian producers and importers and retailers in Vietnam,” he added.

import,2.jpg
Chris Lethbridge - Commercial Development Coordinator at Cherry Growers Australia. Photo: Hort Innovation

The event also served as a valuable networking platform, bringing together over 15 importers, retailers, and food industry professionals. The networking sessions provided opportunities for guests to discuss potential business opportunities, exchange ideas, and build new relationships in the Australian and Vietnamese markets.

Many participants expressed interest in expanding the product line with Australian cherries, recognizing the growing demand for fresh, premium products in Vietnam.

Enjoy fresh cherries and a culinary demonstration.

One of the highlights of the event was the tasting session, where guests were treated to the freshest Australian cherries of the season. The exceptional flavor and crisp texture of the cherries left a strong impression, affirming the value of Australian cherries as a premium fruit on the international market.

In addition, the culinary demonstrations showcased the versatility of Australian cherries in both sweet and savory dishes. From cherry-infused cocktails to high-end desserts and savory dishes incorporating cherries, attendees were inspired to create innovative ways to incorporate this fruit into their menus and retail products.

import, 3.jpg
Introducing our Christmas 2024 and Lunar New Year 2025 gift box collection this December at over 100 stores. Photo: Hort Innovation

“We are confident that this event will pave the way for increased demand and stronger penetration of Australian cherries in Vietnam,” said Karina Keisler, Marketing & Communications Director at Hort Innovation.

“Our mission is to bring the exquisite taste and quality of Australian cherries to global consumers, and events like this are opportunities to raise awareness and create appeal for world-class products in local markets,” said Karina Keisler.

Hort Innovation is a farmer-owned, non-profit research and development organization for the Australian agricultural industry. It promotes Australia's $16 billion agricultural sector through investments in research and development, marketing, and trade, aiming to build a prosperous and sustainable future for producers.

Bich Dao