Victoria smashes food and fibre export target

VICTORIA has hit its $20 billion food and fibre export goal six years ahead of schedule, cementing its place as Australia’s top exporter in the sector.

The state’s producers and food manufacturers accounted for 27 per cent of the national food and fibre export value in 2023 to 2024, according to the latest Food and Fibre Export Performance Report.

Economic growth and jobs minister Danny Pearson said the result showed Victorian exports were delivering local jobs and stronger regional economies.

“When it comes to food and fibre, we are the reigning Premiers – and we have absolutely smashed our export target six years ahead of schedule,” Pearson said.

“Every contract signed by a Victorian business to sell their goods overseas helps to grow jobs at home, and that’s why we back our exporters so strongly.”

Victoria was one of only two states to record growth in food and fibre exports last year. Butter exports rose by 81 per cent, while China remained the largest market, worth almost $5 billion.

Export value also grew to the United States, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and India.

Agriculture minister Ros Spence credited the state’s primary producers and manufacturers for the result.

“We’ve exceeded our 2030 export targets well ahead of schedule, and that’s thanks to the tireless efforts of our world-class primary producers and food manufacturers,” Spence said.

The government has committed $34.9 million in the 2025 to 2026 budget to help businesses find new markets, plus $18.8 million for its Trade and Investment Network.