Browse Data and Analysis

A major driver of Australia's manufacturing sector is its food, beverage, and grocery industries, which account for a third of all activity. Recent growth has been strong, with an 11% increase in turnover to US$107 billion in 2022-23.

According to Australian law, the excise duty rates levied on alcohol are subject to biannual indexation, with adjustments made in accordance with the upward trajectory of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Australian wheat and barley producers faced challenges during difficult seasonal conditions in most major production regions.

Early seasonal conditions for the MY 2024/25 citrus crop have been very favorable. Along with expansion in production area, growers anticipate an improvement in production and the prospect of high-quality fruit production. Orange production is expected to increase five percent to 545,000 metric tons (MT) from the prior’s year estimate, the highest over the last two decades.

In 2023, Australia's foodservice industry was worth A$59 billion (US$39.1 billion). However, rising inflation and the overall cost of living have hindered its growth in 2023 and 2024.

Milk production for 2025 in Australia is forecast to increase by 1.1 percent to 8.8 million metric tons (MMT) after strong growth of 2.7 percent for 2024 at an estimated 8.7 MMT from previous years of declining production.

The Australian federal government’s strong support for biotechnology is evident in its considerable long-term funding commitment to research and development. Despite the contentious nature of biotech in Australia, the federal government remains a strong proponent, investing heavily in research and development and approving various genetically engineered crops for commercial use.

Australian winter crops have had very challenging seasonal conditions for MY 2024/25, including low soil moisture at planting, below-average rainfall, and frost damage.

Australia’s table grape production is forecast to increase to 230,000 metric tons (MT) in marketing year (MY) 2024/25, the second largest on record, from an estimated 195,000 MT in MY 2023/24.

FAS China forecasts commercial production of in-shell walnuts to rebound 11 percent to 1.5 MMT in MY 2024/25 supported by favorable growing conditions in major production areas. Improved world supplies and changing dietary concepts will likely drive nut imports to continue rising.

Australia and the United Arab Emirates announced that negotiations on a new trade agreement, the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, have concluded.

Australia is experiencing a cost-of-living crisis due to rising inflation. Consumer behavior and societal trends are driving shifts in shopping habits. Meanwhile, sustainability, waste reduction, food integrity, and healthy eating are key factors influencing product choices.