Industry is now looking at devising its industry goals and strategies via the document Strategy 2005 as part of the government's foresight project. The vegetable industry cannot afford to be complacent if it wants to maintain current levels of government funding. Our goals must be clearly defined. The vegetable industry has assumed a leading role to determine the focus of research activities. Research is increasingly industry, rather than scientist driven, and in turn industry is contributing higher levels of funding towards research Partnerships between science providers and vegetable sectors have strengthened as dialogue and consultation have now become commonplace.
Research is essential for the survival of the industry.
Pests and diseases of vegetables have the ability to devastate a crop and to adversely affect a growing community. However, the move away from an overwhelmingly domestic focus has altered the industry's research needs as it responds to the demands of international markets, especially in the Asian region. Research priorities are continually evolving as consumers become more discerning of quality and issues of safe food production. As a result research projects emphasise alternatives to pesticide use and employ a integrated approach which explores biological and cultural control methods wherever possible. It encompasses an overview of the vegetable industry and product sectors, especially in relation to research activities.