Australia may import whole grain for the first time in more than a decade, as drought is increasing prices on the domestic market. The latest crop projections forecast that Western Australia will produce more than 50 per cent of the national crop for the first time in 20 years.
Farmers wish to increase market prices to meet the cost of production. The Department of Agriculture confirmed it had received five applications to import bulk whole grain from the USA and Canada.
The products concerned were wheat, canola, corn, and peas imported through various Australian ports.
“It is not appropriate for the Department to provide details of individual exporters that have submitted applications,” the statement said.