Australian pineapple growers warn of pest risks as imports from India and Indonesia are evaluated

The federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry issued a draft assessment of the biosecurity risks associated with importing decrowned pineapples from India and Indonesia, two countries seeking market access under existing trade rules. The report identified eight pests, chiefly mealybug species, that could be contained through measures like fumigation, irradiation, unit inspections and traceability. Australian growers, including second-generation farmer Colin Hawken and Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers chief Scott Kompo-Harms, contend that local farms already satisfy domestic demand and that the proposed imports could introduce diseases for which Australia has no defenses.

The department, citing its World Trade Organization commitments, cannot evaluate the economic impact of added competition but will review comments submitted by September 14. Final recommendations are expected in the latter half of 2027, and any approved imports would require the exporting nations to demonstrate full compliance with the prescribed controls.