The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia
Media Release
31 July 1996 TR 51
AUSTRALIAN RICE INTO JAPAN
The Australian rice industry has taken another step in the right direction
regarding rice sales to Japan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade,
Tim Fischer said today.
I welcome the announcement of further sales of Australian rice to Japan,
which indicates a consumer acceptance of the Australian product, Mr Fischer
said.
"The sale comes about as a consequence of Japan opening up a target
of 8% of its rice market by the year 2000 under the Uruguay Round and is
a step in the right direction for suppliers of high quality japonica rice
from Australia, and notably the Riverina," Mr Fischer said.
"These sales are particularly noteworthy in two respects. Firstly,
Australia was successful in supplying the largest volume of japonica rice
under this tender, the major type of rice consumed in Japan.
"Secondly, the tender resulted in the first sale of koshihikari rice,
newly released on a trial basis specifically to meet Japanese consumer preferences.
"The Rice Growers Co-operative Mills headquartered in Leeton deserve
praise for their strategic approach.
"The Rice Growers are hoping for success in the bigger volume tenders
later this year and they are ready, willing and able to supply more rice
to the Japanese market."
Mr Fischer added he was delighted the Mitsuhashi Inc at Yokohama, which
he visited earlier this year, was one of the parties involved in the process
of securing the sale of Australian rice.
Further information contact:
John Richardson, DFAT ph. (06) 261 2303
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