The Australian Processing Tomato Research Council represents the biosecurity interests of the producers of processing tomatoes. They are members of Plant Health Australia and signatories to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed. Their responsibilities include:
- biosecurity planning and implementation at the national and farm levels
- liaising with federal and state governments on trade issues
- funding and supporting biosecurity initiatives
- participating in national committees and response efforts in an emergency.
Industry overview
In 2015–16, processing tomato production was valued at $26 million (LVP). The main varieties grown in Australia are dominated by Heinz cultivars and 99 per cent of the production area is irrigated using sub-surface drip lines.
Around 184,680 tonnes of tomatoes were delivered for processing during the 2016–17 season. This is a drop of about 90,166 tonnes (one third) on the previous year. While 2,180 hectares was planted, rain and high mould counts meant 112 hectares of produce was not harvested.
Australia consumes around 535,690 tonnes of processed tomatoes, with the majority of imports coming from Italy and China.
The processing tomatoes industry is covered by version 1.0 of the biosecurity plan for the tomato industry.
Value of production and distribution
Annual value of processing tomato production, 2007–16
Distribution of processing tomato production by state and territory, 2015–16 (based on LVP)
Biosecurity plan
Biosecurity Plan for the Tomato Industry
Biosecurity planning provides a mechanism for the papaya industry, government and other relevant stakeholders to assess current biosecurity practices and future biosecurity needs. Planning identifies procedures that can be put in place to reduce the chance of pests reaching our borders or minimise the impact if a pest incursion occurs.
The Biosecurity Plan for the Tomato Industry outlines key threats to the industry, risk mitigation plans, identification and categorisation of exotic pests and contingency plans. For a copy, please contact PHA on 02 6215 7700 or email admin@phau.com.au
