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Queenslander exports world’s first major Achacha fruit order to Hong Kong A north Queensland plantation has become the first in the world to export exotic Achacha fruit on a large scale to the demanding and prestigious Hong Kong market. Treasurer Curtis Pitt made special mention of the Achacha Fruit Plantations at Giru (just south of Townsville) at the launch of the new Queensland Trade and Investment Strategy today. Originally an Amazonian forest fruit known as an achachairu (or ‘honey kiss’), the Achacha is a small, golden, oval fruit with white flesh and a refreshing sweet and tangy flavour. “This month the company flew 1,350kg of fruit (more than 30,000 Achachas) to Wing Kee Produce Ltd, distributors of premium fresh foods to Hong Kong and Macau,” Mr Pitt said. “This Achacha shipment is a groundbreaking milestone for Queensland and a world-leading first into Hong Kong; one I hope to see repeated every year at this time. “Achacha Fruit Plantations run the world’s biggest commercial Achacha farm near Townsville and they are the first growers ever to export Achachas on a large scale to Hong Kong. “I’m proud to say that Queensland Achachas are now on sale in Hong Kong as a premium product. “Not only will Achachas introduce a unique new flavour to Hong Kong palates, they’ll spread the message that Queensland farmers grow some of the world’s most exotic and exclusive produce. “I hope that every year around this time we’ll be sharing some of Queensland’s Achacha harvest with the people of Hong Kong.” Achacha Fruit Plantations CEO Bruce Hill said that support from Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) had been critical in securing the export deal. “A TIQ trade adviser with experience in Hong Kong introduced us to the importer last month and after a few email exchanges, they placed an order very quickly,” he said. “We already export to the Middle East, UK and North America, but it’s great to add another premium market like Hong Kong to our export destinations. “This first shipment has gone so well that Wing Kee Produce is already talking about placing a second order. “They’re a pleasure to work with and it’s a relationship that we hope to continue next year and into the future.” Mr Hill said that the Achacha harvest generally runs from January to April, and that Queenslanders wanting to try an Achacha should ask at their local fruit shop or supermarket. About Achachas
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