Market
Raisins (dried grapes) in Australia are produced mainly in the Sunraysia region of northwest Victoria and southwest New South Wales, with smaller volumes in South Australia’s Riverland. Production is based on irrigated viticulture linked to the Murray River system and is supplied through domestic processors into retail packs, industrial ingredient channels, and export programs; seasonal weather can disrupt harvest timing and availability.
Market RoleDomestic producer with export participation
Domestic RoleRetail snack and baking ingredient; bulk ingredient for industrial manufacturers and foodservice.
Market Growth
SeasonalityHarvest/drying activity in the Murray-region dried grape industry typically peaks around March, while product availability is largely year-round due to storage and ongoing packing/dispatch.
Risks
Biosecurity and Border HighAustralian biosecurity clearance can be blocked by non-compliance for dried grapes (e.g., product not thoroughly dried, contamination with soil/plant debris, or pests/live insects), which can lead to inspection delays and outcomes including treatment, export or disposal.Work strictly to the BICON dried grapes pathway; enforce pre-shipment cleanliness and pest-control checks, and use importer/broker checklists aligned to DAFF directions.
Food Safety MediumConsignments can be referred for inspection and analytical testing under Australia’s Imported Food Inspection Scheme; residue screening and standards compliance failures can place goods on hold and trigger corrective actions.Maintain supplier residue-monitoring and COA discipline aligned to the Food Standards Code MRL framework; ensure accurate declarations in the Full Import Declaration (FID) to avoid holds.
Logistics MediumSea-freight rate volatility and container availability can materially affect landed cost and delivery timelines for bulk dried fruit, especially for lower-margin industrial packs.Use forward freight planning, multi-carrier routing, and inventory buffers for industrial customers; consider contract freight for peak seasons.
Climate MediumUnusual wet weather and river conditions in key production areas can delay harvesting and contribute to short-term market shortages and price volatility for Australian-origin raisins/sultanas/currants.Diversify approved supplier base across regions and maintain contingency inventory ahead of expected harvest windows.
Label and Allergen MediumSulphites are commonly present in dried fruit and can trigger sensitivity reactions; incorrect additive/allergen-related labelling can create compliance and recall risk in Australia.Verify additive use and ensure label statements align with the Food Standards Code requirements for ingredient/additive declarations and sulphite-related consumer information.
Sustainability- Water stewardship risk in irrigated dried-grape production linked to the Murray River system (exposure to allocation/availability constraints).
- Climate variability (including unusually wet seasons and river conditions) can delay harvest and tighten availability.
Labor & Social- Modern Slavery Act 2018 reporting obligations apply to large entities operating in Australia (relevant for major importers/retailers/manufacturers conducting supply-chain due diligence).
Standards- BRCGS/BRC food safety certification (example: APDF states BRC accreditation in its operations context)
- BSI HACCP & GMP certification (example: APDF publishes HACCP & GMP certification materials)
- SQF certification (example: APDF references SQF as a Codex HACCP-based certification standard)
FAQ
Where are Australia’s raisins (dried grapes) mainly produced?Most of Australia’s dried grapes are grown in the Sunraysia region of northwest Victoria and southwest New South Wales, with smaller quantities produced in South Australia’s Riverland.
What is the main deal-breaker import risk for raisins entering Australia?Biosecurity non-compliance is the main blocker: Australia requires dried grapes to be thoroughly dried, clean and free of biosecurity risk material, and consignments can be inspected and treated. If pests (including live insects) are found, outcomes can include treatment, export or disposal.
Are sulphites relevant for raisins sold in Australia?Yes. FSANZ notes that dried fruit commonly contains sulphites, which are used to help preserve colour and reduce spoilage. Sulphites can trigger reactions in sulphite-sensitive people, so correct ingredient/additive labelling is important when sulphites are present.
Do Australian companies need modern slavery due diligence for dried fruit supply chains?Large entities operating in Australia that meet the Modern Slavery Act threshold must publish an annual Modern Slavery Statement describing how they identify and address modern slavery risks in their operations and supply chains.