Australia appoints first agricultural adviser to competition regulator

Australia has appointed its first agricultural adviser to its competition regulator in a bid to protect farmers who have long complained that profits are squeezed by the country’s dominant supermarkets and processors.

Supporting farmers is seen as critical to Australia’s goal to be the “delicatessen of Asia” by capitalising on strong Asian demand for high-end produce that has seen the value of the country’s agricultural exports rise to about A$45bn (€29bn) last year.

“The government is committed to fostering a vibrant and competitive agriculture industry to ensure that Australian agribusinesses are well-placed to seize opportunities both at home and in emerging global markets,” said Australian treasurer Scott Morrison.