Agriculture in Australia: Major Crops and Economic Impact

Iruni Kalupahana Jadetimes Staff

I. Kalupahana is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Australia

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Image Source: Pentarch Agricultural

Major Crops and Cultivation

Australia has a diverse range of agricultural crops like wheat, barley, canola, cotton, sugarcane, fruits, and vegetables. Other major crops include sorghum, oats, rice, pulses (beans and peas), and corn (maize). Though it is a big country, only a small percentage of land is being cultivated permanently, with irrigation systems and wells pumping water from the Great Artesian Basin to support cultivation. Australian agriculture is highly mechanized, and farming is highly efficient and sustainable.

Key Export Commodities

Wheat is Australia's most important crop, both locally and for export. Australia provides around 10 to 15 percent of international wheat exports, primarily to East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Unlike Northern Hemisphere counterparts, Australia produces white grained wheat only, much of which is used for bread and noodles. Wheat season is from May and continues through July, when the crop is harvested between September and January. The other major crop is sugarcane, and Australia is one of the world's largest exporters of sugar. Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan are some of the major purchasers. Other derivatives of sugar such as molasses and bagasse, a vegetable fiber that serves as fuel, are also profit generating.

Horticulture and Specialty Crops

Horticulture contributes a significant segment of Australian agriculture, comprising a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and flowers. Farmers produce tropical fruits like bananas, mangoes, avocados, and oranges, as well as temperate fruits like apples, pears, and grapes. Vegetables such as asparagus, potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and onions are widely cultivated. Macadamia nuts, which are an Australian specialty, are highly sought after in overseas markets. Although the majority of horticultural produce is sold locally, some is exported, making Australia's agricultural trade stronger.

Wine Industry and Economic Significance

Australia is one of the top 10 wine producing nations in the world, with exports to over 100 nations, including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The southern regions of Australia are particularly renowned for their quality wines. The wine industry became economically important in the 1950s and witnessed a production boom in the 1990s and early 2000s. Apart from its economic contribution, the wine industry supports Australia's image in overseas markets. Australian agriculture, its technologies, and strategic exports in general are a cornerstone of the country's economic development.