Potential to meet market needs Western Australia is a potential supplier of new vegetables such as burdock and daikon, particularly to the Japanese market. Proximity to Asia, an export oriented horticultural industry and natural resource assets, all combine to give WA unique advantages when it comes to doing business. WA growers are exploring the exciting production possibilities of a diverse range of new crops. The economy in the west is based on exports and consequently a well developed infrastructure exists. There are about 12 Western Australian exporters of vegetables with developed links and distribution capabilities to service the Japanese and other Asian markets.
Market opportunities Japan is the largest and most significant overseas market for burdock.
This presents an opportunity for Australia to supply Japan with quality product, particularly from March to June when fresh, Japanese grown burdock is in short supply. Huge potential also exists for export of processed burdock. Opportunities are also growing for supplying fresh and processed daikon to Asia, particularly to Japan, which imports large amounts of this radish in fresh and semi-processed forms such as radish pickles, takuan and dried radish. Potential also exists to expand the domestic market demand for daikon since it can be readily adapted to Western-style cooking. Through continuous improvement in these areas, the industry aims to meet customer demand, expand markets and continue to consistently supply high quality, clean and wholesome vegetables.