Australian Grape & Wine has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement of new and expanded market access for organic wine under equivalence arrangements with India and Japan.
The agreements mean Australian organic wine producers will face fewer regulatory barriers, with both countries recognising Australia’s organics system as equivalent for a range of products, including wine. The move is expected to streamline export processes and open additional opportunities in two key markets.
Australian Grape & Wine Chief Executive Lee McLean said the developments represent a significant boost for the growing organic wine segment. “This is an excellent outcome for Australian wine producers, particularly those in the growing organic segment. Equivalence arrangements reduce red tape and costs, so our producers can focus on building their brands and expanding their exports in these valuable markets,” he said.
Exports of organic wine to Japan have more than doubled over the past decade, and Mr McLean said the new arrangement will help sustain that momentum. “Japan is already a strong and established destination for Australian wine, and this agreement ensures our organic producers are not burdened with additional regulatory hurdles that would have made it harder to compete.”
He added that India presents an emerging growth opportunity. “The Indian organic market is expanding rapidly, and this agreement puts Australian producers in a strong position to meet that demand. It’s another important step in diversifying our export footprint and building resilience in our sector.”
Australian Grape & Wine said it will continue working closely with government and industry stakeholders to support producers in taking advantage of the new arrangements and to ensure Australian organic wine continues to strengthen its reputation internationally.