Horticulture

Aussie apples set sail for Canada

By Djembe Archibald

Sep 10, 2025

Plunkett Orchards general manager Andrew Plunkett says Canada offers new opportunities for apples, building on 25 years of successful pear exports. Photo by Megan Fisher

Australian apples are set to make their way to Canada for the first time, following a new trade agreement secured by the Federal Government.

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Plunkett Orchards general manager Andrew Plunkett said Plunkett Orchards would look to leverage existing relationships forged through more than 25 years of pear exports.

“We already export pears to Canada, and they are quite a successful program,” Mr Plunkett said.

“What we are hoping is that we will be able to leverage some of the existing relationships we have already through the pear program to send some apples to Canada.”

The journey for fruit to go to Canada was under 30 days before the COVID-19 pandemic, but has remained 40 to 45 days since.

He said the voyage would restrict which varieties could make the journey in good condition.

“Pink Lady and Granny Smith could be opportunities,” he said.

“Gala is not a long-lasting apple, so it would be difficult for them to make the journey.”

Canada is already the orchard’s number one market for pears, but Mr Plunkett was cautious.

“We don’t necessarily see it as a game changer in terms of selling a lot of fruit because New Zealand already has access,” he said.

“They are generally a little bit cheaper than us, have a higher pack-out, and grow a greater range of varieties.”

Australian pears, particularly Williams and Packham, already enjoy a strong foothold in Canada’s premium fruit market. Photo by Megan Fisher

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Julie Collins said the agreement was an important win for the industry, which produces close to 300,000 tonnes of apples annually and is valued at more than $680 million.

“We welcome this improved access to the Canadian market, and the benefits our growers and producers will reap from the agreement,” Ms Collins said.

“This is another example of the Federal Government continuing to provide new pathways for our produce right around the world.”

Pink Lady and Granny Smith apples may be among the few varieties able to withstand the 40- to 45-day voyage to Canada. Photo by Megan Fisher

Australian apple and pear growers already export to more than 160 markets globally, with over 70 per cent of agricultural production shipped overseas.

Earlier this year, mainland growers also gained final approval to send apples to China.

Apple and Pear Australia Limited chief executive Philip Turnbull said the Canadian access was another important step forward.

“The Australian apple and pear industry welcomes improved access to Canada, with high-quality Australian apples now joining pears in reaching this premium market,” Mr Turnbull said.

“This milestone opens new export pathways, supports market diversification, and strengthens opportunities to grow Australian pome fruit exports to high-value international markets.”