AState of the Industry report on vegetable and fresh produce production is set to be developed by AUSVEG SA.


The report will identify supply chain constraints and opportunities for future growth of the sector and is supported by a $65,000 grant from the State Government.


AUSVEG SA will produce the report in partnership with the University of Adelaide’s SA Centre for Economic Studies for the collection of data, subsequent analysis and economic modelling.


The report will provide better understanding of the current market environment for growers and consumers, investigate supply chain pressure points and will also identify investment opportunities for future growth of the sector.


To be delivered in early 2024, the report will focus on farmgate returns on key commodities, investment sentiment among growers, key challenges and the economic contribution of the sector to various regional areas within the state.


The intensive horticulture industry is currently valued at over $1.5b in Adelaide’s north with vegetables generating approximately $2.5b statewide.


Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Clare Scriven is looking forward to the outcome of the report.


“Horticulture is a vital contributor to the South Australian economy through revenue generated but also as a significant source of employment in many of our regions,” she said.


“It is also important in terms of our lifestyle and reputation as a producer of fine food and produce.


“Already strong, it is also an industry with great potential and the AUSVEG SA report that we are supporting will provide a blueprint and foundation for future growth.”


AUSVEG SA chief executive Jordan Brooke-Barnett welcomed the State Government’s support, which he said would allow industry to better assess the current state of play and provide important insights into grower returns.


“While many Australians are struggling with cost-of-living pressures, our supermarket duopoly continues to post billion-dollar profits with growers expected to operate on extremely low margins,” he said.


“The State of the Industry report will be critical in providing industry and government the insights into margins of key staple lines which will show who is making what in the supply chain and provide a better picture for decision makers and the broader community.”