New Zealand’s growing avocado industry will take the spotlight in April 2023 when the country hosts the World Avocado Congress for the first time ever.
The global avocado market worth approximately $8 billion (USD) in 2020, and expected to grow to $17 billion (USD) by 2025, the World Avocado Congress has become the most prestigious global event to celebrate the sector.
Jen Scoular, CEO of New Zealand Avocado and President of the World Avocado Congress Committee, says that after the challenges of the global pandemic, they are delighted to welcome the global avocado community to their shores.
“Borders are reopening. Tickets are live on our new website. New Zealand and the avocado sector is open for business and we invite you to join us for the 10th World Avocado Congress in April 2023,” she says.
Taking place from 2-5 April 2023 at the Aotea Centre in Auckland, the congress is anticipated to attract over 1000 people from 50 countries, including some of the brightest minds in avocados; international growers, researchers, marketers, retailers, tech innovators and investors.
“The World Avocado Congress will showcase New Zealand’s leadership in avocado growing, sustainable environmental practice, beautiful orchards, ethical work treatment and great tasting avocados. We’re excited to have the scientific, technical and marketing brains of the global avocado community in NZ, sharing their knowledge, hearing about our industry, and being part of the collective approach seeking to increase both supply and demand of avocados.”
“This is also a once in a lifetime opportunity for New Zealand’s avocado community to access global avocado experts and apply this knowledge to our unique avocado growing conditions and challenges."
Super earlybird tickets are now available on the World Avocado Congress website www.wacnz2023.com. Information regarding exhibition space, abstract submission, accommodation, sponsorship packages and field day bookings can also be found on the website.
The congress will include a three day academic programme with international keynote speakers. Topics will include sustainability, production and productivity, breeding and genomics, pest and disease management, extension, agritech, post-harvest supply chain, nutrition in human health and international reports. Regional field days will take place prior to the event.
“Conversations remain ongoing regarding sponsorships and event partnerships, says Scoular. To date, Mission Produce – one of the largest avocado growers and marketers in the world - joins as the first global foundation partner. New Zealand sponsors include Darling Group, Avoco, Radfords Software and Seeka. Event partners include Plant & Food Research, Auckland Unlimited, Tourism New Zealand and Horticulture New Zealand.
New Zealand, the world’s ninth largest avocado exporter, has nearly 5,000 ha of orchards and contributes 2% of global production.
Over the past financial year, New Zealand’s avocado industry value increased significantly to $234 million (NZD), with record values achieved in both export and the local market from 8.2 M trays harvested.
For more information:
Jen Scoular
New Zealand Avocado
Tel: +64 7 571 6147
Email: [email protected]
www.wacnz2023.com