Australia’s Hort Innovation recently provided an update on the citrus partnership between Japan and Australia.
Australia is the No. 1 citrus import partner for Japan, holding a 27% market share. This figure has grown steadily since 2021 (20%).
The partnership between Australia and Japan is highly complementary and counter-seasonal, allowing both countries to support each other’s markets effectively.
Japan is Australia’s third-largest trading partner in horticulture, with exports valued at $175.6 million in 2025. Leading exports are oranges, which account for 42% of exports. This figure continues to grow for the whole citrus industry. Australian citrus export value and volume to Japan grew by 24% and 15%, respectively, compared to the previous year. This suggests improved pricing and stronger returns per unit, or a shift toward higher-value products in market.
There has been particularly strong growth in the grapefruit, lemon and lime categories. Grapefruit recorded an average of 17% year-on-year growth over five years. Lemons and limes show even stronger performance with 54% average year-on-year growth over the same period.
Through a variety of strategic initiatives, in-market events and collaborative partnerships, Hort Innovation is actively working to deepen industry networks in Japan and solidify the reputation of Australian growers in the Japanese market.
Two recent events helped strengthen relationships with Japan:
- The Taste of the Land Down Under in the Land of the Rising Sun event, held on March 11 as part of the Australia-Japan Horticulture Showcase initiative
- The Taste the Wonders of Australia event, hosted on April 9 by the Australian Food and Wine Collaboration Group
The events featured export market roundtable discussions, food and wine workshops, and industry dinners. They had strong representation from both the Australian horticulture industry and government, showcasing collaborative efforts to strengthen trade ties with Japan. Japanese industry leaders, who visited Australia during October last year as part of a study tour, returned for the events.
The Japanese leaders shared a number of key insights:
- Fresh produce prices in Japan have increased by 19%, making Japanese consumers more price conscious with a high preference for quality.
- The Japanese government is looking to work with strong and consistent partners. Australia is seen to be a critical partner.
- Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in Japan. This provides an opportunity for Australia.
- Growers are encouraged to support the ‘brand Australia’ image to increase brand awareness of produce exported to the market.
- Agriculture is an integral part of both Australia and Japan’s cultural fabric.
Source: Hort Innovation
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