Please note: this is an old article
It was published in October 2013, so the information may be out-of-date.
Australian fruit and vegetable processor SPC Ardmona has articulated its displeasure in the Productivity Commission’s accelerated report findings, which denied provisional safeguard tariffs against imported processed tomato and fruit products.
"This is extremely disappointing for SPC Ardmona, growers and the Goulburn Valley region," said Peter Kelly, Managing Director of SPC Ardmona . "We disagree with the Commission's conclusion in the reports. We have provided compelling evidence that in these circumstances the immediate provision of safeguards should be applied," he said (ABC news 2013).
The Productivity Commission will finish the full report by 20 December 2013.
"This further delays action at a critical stage in our business and seasonal cycle and perpetuates uncertainty in the region," Mr Kelly said. "I am very disappointed on behalf of all the people including growers and community members who supported our submission and have been waiting for a response," he said.
A further hearing into the provision of safeguards was held on Monday 28 October by the Productivity Commission in Melbourne. Presentations were heard from Dr Sharman Stone, Greater Shepparton City Council, SPCA, fruitgrowers Sali Besim and Ross Turnbull as well as two South African delegations. Council continues to work closely with SPCA to support this endeavour”.
In April 2013 SPC Ardmona began the process of making application to the Federal Government for application of safeguard tariffs against imported processed tomatoes and processed fruit in accordance with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Safeguards Agreement. SPC Ardmona said it would examine the report and repercussions for its business in detail. The community of Greater Shepparton wish SPC Ardmona every success in this important endeavour.