Current and potential high value perishable Agricultural commodities (HVPACs) that have demand in Asian countries: A Case Study of Central Queensland

About the Research Project

This project, supported by the CRC for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA), investigated how Northern Australia can expand exports of HVPACs such as mango, avocado, lychee, and table grapes to Asian markets. The research examined potential commodities, developed appropriate supply chain collaboration (ASCC) models, assessed farmer willingness to participate in export-oriented contracts, and studied Chinese consumer behaviour towards Australian produce. Findings emphasise the importance of horizontal and vertical collaboration, leadership development, and supply chain innovation to ensure sustainable exports and economic growth for Queensland and Northern Australia

Impact

Strengthened Northern Australia’s horticulture sector by identifying high-value export commodities and creating practical supply chain models to improve collaboration, leadership, and access to Asian markets.

Partners

Project lead: Professor Delwar Akbar 

Professor Delwar Akbar is a research leader at CQUniversity with extensive experience in regional economic development, supply chain analysis, and place-based planning. His work focuses on developing data-driven strategies, enhance value chain efficiency, and improve economic resilience in regional Australia. As the lead investigator for the “Exporting Perishable Commodities to Asia” project, Professor Akbar applied his expertise in stakeholder engagement, industry collaboration, and supply chain development to identify high-value commodities such as mango, avocado, and lychee with strong export potential. His work delivered practical collaboration models and end-user guidelines to strengthen leadership, improve supply chain efficiency, and unlock new trade opportunities for Northern Australia’s horticulture sector. Learn more.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

At CQUniversity we are committed to embedding sustainable practice in our operations, interactions and relationships, underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainability sits as one of our strategic pillars within our Strategic Plan 2019-2023.

This project aligns to the following SDG Goals:

  • Zero Hunger (Goal 2)
  • Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8)
  • Responsible Consumption and Production (Goal 12)
  • Partnerships for the Goals (Goal 17)

Learn more about our commitment to Sustainable Development Goals.

Decent Work and Economic Growth - Top 300 logo 2025
Responsible Consumption and Production - Top 70 logo 2025
Partnerships for the Goals - Top 20 logo 2025