Market Information
Asia Pacific

The Aquaculture Market in Australia

May 2002

Prepared by the Market Research Centre
and the
Canadian Trade Commissioner Service

© Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(FaxLink no. 34137)

The Market Research Centre produces a wide range of market reports by region and sector for Canadian exporters. For further information please contact:

Market Support Division (TCM)
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
E-mail: mrc@dfait-maeci.gc.ca 

- DFAIT Internet site (http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca)

Trade Evaluation and Analysis Division (TEAD)
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Contact: Jim Lowe
Tel.: (613) 759-7652
Fax: (613) 759-7505
E-mail: lowej@agr.gc.ca

Agri-Food Trade Service: (http://ats.agr.ca)

The Government of Canada has prepared this report based on primary and secondary sources of information. Readers should take note that the Government of Canada does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information contained in this report, nor does it necessarily endorse the organizations listed herein. Readers should independently verify the accuracy and reliability of the information. This report is intended as a concise overview of the market for those interested in its potential and is not intended to provide in-depth analysis which may be required by the individual exporter.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Australia's fisheries industry depends on the emerging aquaculture sector to supply one third of total seafood exports. The industry is subsequently enhancing fish farming capabilities through advances in aquatic biotechnology. Domestic and foreign sales of farmed fish products is forecast to achieve $2 billion1 in annual sales by 2010.

The most profitable species farmed in Australia include prawns, pearls, oysters, salmon and tuna, which together represent 85% of domestic aquaculture production. Pearl farming is the largest industry segment in the sector accounting for 40% of aquaculture sales in 2000. Despite the introduction of new fish species, salmon remains the most important fin fish product in Australia's aquaculture industry. Aquaculture products with the best growth prospects in the coming years include mussels, yabbies, abalone and snapper.

Canada has successfully disputed Australian restrictions that prohibited the importation of raw salmonids (salmon and related species) since 1975, based on alleged fish health concerns. As of June 1, 2000, salmon and related species are allowed into Australia under specific quarantine conditions. Many of Canada's seafood exports, including salmon, are in direct competition with Australia's key aquaculture products. Exporters are therefore advised to research the prospective market demand.

While there is a small but growing market for Canadian seafood products in Australia, the greatest potential for Canadian exporters lies in the areas of research and biotechnology products to support the aquaculture industry. Opportunities exist in Australia for Canadian firms active in disease research, vaccines and medications, improved food and processing technologies, as well as research collaborations, contract research opportunities, and technology transfer. Opportunities for research and technology in the niche markets of species, particularly prawns and shellfish, will continue to grow in the coming years. Canadian expertise and biotechnology products will be invaluable as these industries are developed in Australia.

MARKET OVERVIEW

Australia is a prosperous, politically and economically stable, industrialized nation. The past 10 years have seen consistent economic growth. With a prosperous consumer base, Australia is an attractive market for Canadian businesses and investors. Australia is bordered by the Indian and South Pacific Oceans and has a total land area of 7.7 million square kilometres.

The Australian fisheries industry, worth $1.89 billion in 2000, comprises both wild catch and aquaculture. Aquaculture, which encompasses the rearing, breeding and processing of aquatic species such as fish, molluscs and crustaceans, accounted for 30% of the country's total fisheries production in 2000. Over the past 10 years, Australia's fisheries industry has grown at 56% while aquaculture production has grown at a tremendous pace of 150%. Aquaculture production in Australia has an expected annual growth rate of 15% until 2010, at which time the sector will be worth $2 billion.

Aquacultural activities have taken place in Australia for approximately 50 years; however, it has only been since the 1980s, when salmon and pearl farms began seeing significant profits, that the number of commercial operations began to grow. In 2000, the number of aquaculture facilities in Australia totalled 3245. Approximately 40% of cultivated production is sold domestically and is done so by small-scale, family-owned operations. Fewer than 100 large-scale commercial operators exist. Analysts forecast that there will be a great deal of consolidation of growers and feed manufacturers in the coming years.

The aquaculture industry relies on innovation and technology to be profitable. Successful fish farms have come to rely on biotechnology research innovations including low-pollution feeds, vaccines, medications, and genetic improvements, as well as basic research into stock densities and resource management. Pollution control around aquaculture areas is also of concern to the government and industry. Analysts predict that biotechnology will increase in importance for the aquaculture industry as wild stocks decline and more of the world's seafood is farmed.

Researchers in Australia are eager to learn methods and best practices of inland aquaculture. With growing concerns over dry-land salininty, there is growing environmental pressure to move fish farming inland to make use of affected areas as a way to rejuvenate the economy. The areas expected to be most affected include Southwest Australia, and areas in the Murray-Darling Basin of Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales. To date, it has not been proven that such a initiative is feasible however a study, funded by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation2, has been initiated to investigate the potential for use of inland saline water for aquaculture.

Types of Fish

The Australian aquaculture industry consists of three segments: fish (37%), crustaceans (8%), and molluscs (55%).

Table 1. Australian Aquaculture Production, 1994-2000 (kilotonne)

Source: IBIS. "Aquaculture in Australia," August 2001

Fish

Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic Salmon accounts for 13-15% of the value of aquaculture production in Australia, second only to pearls. Tasmania is the main salmon producing area due to its suitable environmental conditions. Tassal Ltd. is the leading company in the industry. Other major operators include AquaTas Pty Ltd., Nortas, Sea Farms, Huon Aquaculture Company, and Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania (Saltas) which is partially owned by the Tasmanian government. Production is currently capped at 15 000 tonnes and $163 million annually. By 2010 salmon sales alone are expected to be worth $816 million.

Although salmon raised on fish farms is often fattier than that from the sea (or wild salmon), Australian farmed salmon, experts assert, is lower in fat than salmon from the Northern hemisphere. This is due to the use of low fat fishmeal pellets made from South Pacific-trawled anchovies.

Atlantic salmon is susceptible to Amoebic Gill Disease which affects the respiratory system and, if not treated, can cause up to 50% mortality. New and improved treatments are currently being researched under the federal government's $57 million Aquafin CRC Program, undertaken by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the University of Tasmania Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute.

With recent World Trade Organization (WTO) ratifications, foreign suppliers are now permitted to enter the Australian market. Because these foreign suppliers often have lower production costs, they are posing a threat to domestic producers.

Major export markets of Atlantic salmon include Japan, Singapore and Taiwan.

Snapper

Snapper is a target fish for farms because the number caught in the wild is dropping, forcing Australian supplies to be supplemented by New Zealand imports.

The first commercial offshore snapper farm was opened by Pisces Marine Aquaculture off the coast of New South Wales in November 2001. When in full production the company estimates that approximately 500 tonnes of snapper will be produced annually.

Barramundi

Barramundi is grown commercially in Queensland, Northern Territory, South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia. However, the industry is relatively small, earning less than $10 million in 2000.

In September 2001, Skretting Australia (formerly Pivot Aquaculture) reported that it expects its first baby barra harvest in mid 2002. Planned production increases will lead to harvests of 1000 tonnes in 2003 to an annual production of 10 000 tonnes. The target market is domestic with exports as a possibility in the coming years.

Tuna

Southern Bluefin Tuna is the fastest-growing aquaculture sector in Australia. Tuna farming began in 1991 as a result of a low tuna quota caused by over fishing and is now worth $106 million. Tuna is caught in the waters off Southern Australian and is fattened in cylindrical cages for three to six months using controlled feeding techniques. The South Australia tuna industry, which consists of 16 large farms, netted $192 million in 2000. The MG Kailis Group is the leading producer of Southern Bluefin Tuna.

Trout

Rainbow trout is farmed in a total of 30 operational units in New South Wales, Tasmania and Victoria. Its main export markets include Hong Kong, Malaysia and Taiwan. Along with salmon, trout will continue to be one of the most important fish exports in Australia in the coming years.

Other Fish

Other fish farmed in Australia include mulloway, yellowtail kingfish, silver perch, black bream and sleepy cod.

Additional seafood products classified under the fish category include eels and seahorses. Eel species farmed in Australia include, glass, short-finned and long-finned eel. Long-finned eel are farmed primarily in Queensland and New South Wales, while short-finned eels are produced in Tasmania and Victoria. The farming of glass eel began in September 2000 by the export company Eels Australia Pty Ltd. The move into aquaculture was financially supported by Ching Jong Investments, an aquaculture investment company from Taiwan. Major export markets for eels include Japan and Taiwan.

Seahorse farming began in Australia as a preventative measure against dwindling wild stock. Several production facilities operate in Tasmania, where captive-bred specimens are exported to China for use in traditional medicine.

Crustaceans

Prawns

Australian aquaculturalists cultivate two species of prawns: Kuruma prawn, which is sold alive to the Japanese market, and cooked black tiger, which is primarily sold to the domestic market. Prawns are cultivated in areas throughout northern New South Wales to north Queensland, and the Northern Territory. Prawn demand is expected to increase at a significant rate in the coming years. However, bio-technological problems related to diseases and the lack of suitable brackish water sites are hindering a strong growth in production.

Rock Lobster

In 1990-2000, rock lobster accounted for the 29% of total export value or $472 million of farmed fish products.

Yabby

Yabby (freshwater crayfish) are ideal species for extensive cultivation since they can grow quickly with little or no feeding costs since by living on the plants and micro-organisms in farm dams. They can usually reach market size (about 40 grams) within a year. However, growth rates can be increased if supplementary feeding is provided.

The Australian yabby industry, which has operators in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and New South Wales, produces only 500 tonnes annually. This figure is forecast to increase dramatically as demand grows, especially in foreign markets such as China. Research is under way to genetically alter yabbies to improve growth rates and colours.

Molluscs

Pearls

Pearl production is the largest single farmed product in the country's aquaculture industry accounting for approximately 40% of total sector production and 25% of global production by value. The rare South Sea Pearl is cultivated in Australia and accounts for 44% of global value and 11% of global production by weight. Most pearl production is carried out in Western Australia by a small number of producers holding multiple leases. Production is also carried out in Northern Territory and Queensland.

Major pearling operators include Paspaley Pearling, Kailis Broome Pearls, Arrow Pearls, Cossack, Signet Bay, Clipper, Dampier and Blue Seas.

Oysters

Approximately 60% of Australia's edible oyster production occurs in New South Wales, mainly through state government-controlled oyster leases. Pacific oysters are produced in Tasmania, while Sydney rock oysters are produced on the coast between southern Queensland and northern Victoria.

The oyster industry, unlike the rest of the aquaculture sector, is a mature industry facing a number of recent environmental problems related to pollution and competition for site use. The industry also faces competition from other Pacific oyster producers.

Mussels

Farmed mussels are cultivated in Victoria, Port Phillip Bay and Tasmania. In 1998, these areas collectively produced 195 tonnes and with growing demand, mussel farming is poised for tremendous growth.

Abalone

Abalone is farmed in Tasmania, Victoria, Southern Australia and Western Australia. Abalone farming is also expected to increase as genetic engineering improves.

Future Production

Although 40 species are commercially produced, pearls and tuna account for 64% of the gross value of Australia's aquaculture production. The market for pearls, tuna, salmon, prawns and oysters is expected to steadily grow in the coming years.

Table 2. Forecast Aquaculture Production, 2009-2010

Source: Australia. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. "National Aquaculture Development Committee: Aquaculture Industry Action Agenda," June 2001

Analysts forecast that the additional aquaculture products with significant prospects include mussels, yabbies, abalone and to a lesser degree snapper, whose expansion might be limited due to the small market.

Key Factors Shaping Market Growth

On average, Australians consume 15 kg of fish per year, up from 6.1% in 1994. The demand for fish is increasing as a result of changing tastes, a more cosmopolitan approach to dining, and increased concerns for health and diet. Prices of fish and fish substitutes are also determining factors in the market for cultivated fish products since farmed fish products tend to be relatively expensive and are therefore most often consumed in restaurants. This can be advantageous for Canadian fish suppliers since, in some cases, they are able to sell similar products in the Australian market for a better price.

Imports of aquaculture products increased 8.2% in 2000, up from 6.5% in 1999. Although imports are small they are slowly increasing. Most imports were low-value processed products ($2-5 per kg) such as frozen fillets and canned fish and prawns destined for fast-food outlets and supermarkets. The import of live animals is tightly controlled.

Table 3. Australian Imports of Fish Products ($ millions)

Source: Australia. Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics. "Australian Fish Facts," downloaded from http://www.abare.gov.au/pdf/fishfacts.pdf  on November 16, 2001

In the Australian summer of 2000-2001, salmon farms experienced the highest water temperatures on record resulting in substantial loss of marketable fish tonnage. During this period sea temperatures reached 19
C, which made salmon more prone to disease and resulted in high rates of mortality. Foreign exporters are therefore in a good position to take advantage of this situation and fill the market void in Australia and neighbouring markets that are usually supplied by Australia.

Canadian fresh and frozen salmon exporters now have access to the Australian market for the first time in 25 years as a result of an agreement between Canada and Australia, which took effect on June 1, 2000. Australia had prohibited the importation of raw salmonids (salmon and related species) since 1975, based on alleged fish health concerns. Despite the national lift of this ban, the Tasmanian government has continued to refuse Canadian salmon imports fearing infection of disease. To date Canada has not challenged this motion but analysts believe it sets a dangerous precedent for other states and could encourage a "unilateral ban on a variety of goods." It is speculated that the Australian Commonwealth Government will overturn Tasmania's ban in the near future.

Opportunities

Some of the most viable opportunities for Canadian companies in the aquaculture sector in Australia are in the areas of research and biotechnology products to support the aquaculture industry. Research and product development are particularly important for:

• the provision and development of hatcheries;
• selective breeding programs;
• quality and control of breeding stock for more uniform production;
• constant control of production conditions to prevent pollution;
• improved environmental management systems;
• techniques for off-shore aquaculture;
• inland development to determine what species can be successfully cultivated;
• the prolonged shelf life of shellfish;
• disease control and prevention;
• bio-remediation of coastal waters; and
• the preservation of wild fish stocks.

Canadian companies with expertise in these areas have the opportunity to partner with other research institutions, and sell vaccines and medicines to those experimenting with new species. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation estimates that the increased worldwide demand for fish as a source of food will see the demand for vaccines double by 2003.

There are also opportunities in developing immunity enhancers as well as food technology. These are areas of continued research in Australia and may provide technology transfer, or collaborative arrangement opportunities for Canadian companies. Australia is also looking for dietary enzymes; fishmeal replacements; improved processing technology; formulation to lessen the demand for costly fishmeal in food; to increase food efficiency; and to ensure access to sufficient quality feed.

Additional opportunities are available for Canadian fish products. While several retail and foodservice companies prefer sourcing most of their fish imports from Australia or Asian countries, some companies indicate they are also looking for imports from Canada in some species of salmon (canned), and cod (vacu-sealed packaged). However, the relative high value of the Canadian dollar compared to the Australian dollar is an important factor contributing to the preference for Australian/Asian sourcing of fish. Canadian companies with specialty fish products, or those that can offer fish products at a significantly lower price than domestic producers, are likely to have the best success in the Australian market.

Approximately 60% of fish fillets eaten in Australia are imported. Tinned or processed specialty fish species, such as fresh frozen salmon cutlets and fillets, lobster, crab and other shellfish from North America not available locally, are highly sought after. Domestic consumption of imported seafood is particularly high at Christmas and Easter.

Trade alliances can be facilitated through Canadian High Commission in Australia as well as the Network of Aquaculture Centres in the Asia-Pacific (NACA), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Forum (APEC).

Actual and Planned Projects

There are potential opportunities for Canadian expertise in one of the many research projects currently being conducted in Australia.

• Researchers at Victoria's Strategic Industry Research Foundation are studying the feasibility of producing fish food using by-products from the food industry. Canadian capabilities in this area represent a significant opportunity for collaboration with Australian researchers.
• The University of Tasmania Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute has new and ongoing projects to improve aquaculture in the region. Potential opportunities are available to Canadian companies to collaborate or contribute knowledge to projects. A list of projects is kept up-to-date on the Institute's Web site (http://www.utas.edu.au/docs/
  tafi/TAFI_R&D_Progs.htm#aquaculture).
• In July 2001, the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation invested $1 million for aquaculture research and development projects in Tasmania. Potential opportunities are available for Canadian companies that can offer expertise in offsetting marine diseases and harvesting strategies.

The Department of Industry and Technology in Western Australia provides an up-todate list of aquaculture opportunities on their Web site: http://www.commerce.indtech.wa.gov.au/bigwa/
reginv/opportun/aqua.htm. 

There is close co-operation between Australian universities, research institutes and private companies in the area of aquaculture research.

COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT

Local Capabilities

In 2000, there were a reported 3245 aquaculture operations in Australia.

Table 4. Location of Aquaculture Establishments, by State, 2001

Sources: IBIS. "Aquaculture in Australia," August 2001. Australia. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. "National Aquaculture Development Committee: Aquaculture Industry Action Agenda," June 2001

Australia exported a total of $56 million in farmed seafood products in 2000, with most exports heading to Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and the United States. Exports of Australian fish are expected to climb significantly in the coming years, assuming that products are affordable. Price is a major factor in the Asian market since fish is sometimes undersold by poultry and pork, which are both able substitutes in dishes.

Value-added fish products, including smoked salmon, have increased the demand for Australian products in foreign markets. Approximately 98% of fish products exported are processed. The few exceptions include prawns and abalone, which are often exported live. Unprocessed fish exports rose from 3% in 1995 to 7% in 2000.

The major companies in Australia's aquaculture industry include:

• Tassal Limited
• M G Kailis Holdings Pty Ltd.
• Aquatas Pty Ltd.
• Saltas
• Australian Bight Seafood Pty Ltd.
• Mossman Central Mill Company Ltd.
• Paspaley Pearling
• Kailis Broome Pearls

International Competition

Norway and the United States are among the strongest foreign competitors in the Australian aquaculture market in terms of marine biotechnology. Norway is world-renowned for its skill and technology in the field of salmon aquaculture. There is a strong research base in marine biotechnology, which is well supported by both government and industry. Biotechnology has been applied to vaccines, fish food and medications, but has not yet been applied to commercial breeding of fish species. Norwegian-owned companies Stolt Sea Farms Holding and Nutreco Holding NV are active in the Australian aquaculture industry. In October 2000, Stolt Sea Farms purchased Australian Bluefin PTY. Ltd., the world's largest producer of Bluefin tuna. In February 2001, Nutreco acquired shares in Australian aqua-feed business Pivot Aquaculture.

The development of new vaccines and research into processing methods for various species is, however, prominent within the North American marine biotechnology industry.

In February 2000, the South Australian Government signed a deal to use Chilean technology in the state's aquaculture industry as a means to reach potential demand. This measure also proved to investors that their financial backing would be going into a state-of-the-art industry. The Australian Commonwealth Government has also established knowledge-sharing agreements with researchers in Thailand and China.

Canada's main competitors in the area of fish exports to Australia include New Zealand, South Africa and Denmark. Live fish exports to Australia are dominated by Singapore and Malaysia. Thailand and India are the top exporters of crustaceans and New Zealand, Japan and Thailand are among the leading exporters of molluscs to the domestic Australian market.

Canadian Position

The Canadian aquaculture industry has a strong tradition with activities in every province and territory. Canada is one of the world's key suppliers of farmed salmon, produced almost exclusively in British Columbia and New Brunswick. Atlantic salmon predominates, with chinook and coho also being produced. Trout, steelhead and Arctic char are cultured in smaller numbers. The total value of finfish aquaculture in 1999 was $518.6 million or 93% of the total value of aquaculture production.

Shellfish farming is an increasingly important contributor to Canada's expanding aquaculture industry. Prince Edward Island's rope-grown mussels are well known around the world as is the technology that developed them. Oysters (Atlantic, Pacific and European), manila clams and scallops are growing aquaculture industries, especially in British Columbia. In 1999, cultured shellfish represented 24% of total aquaculture production worth $39 million or 7% of total value.

Canada's strengths in applying biotechnology to aquaculture may be of interest to Australian producers and researchers. Canada's positive relations with the world's most prominent economies, as well as its global reputation for scientific excellence, give Canadian companies an advantage in expanding their businesses to overseas markets. Canadians are well-positioned to provide joint-venture partnerships, technology transfer arrangements as well as vaccines, medications and food technologies to the Australian aquaculture industry.

Competitive Advantage Through Canadian Government Policies and Initiatives

Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) offers export financing and insurance to Canadian exporters. Additionally, insurance can be provided for larger transactions that are subject to the terms and conditions established by the buyer. EDC prefers to work through letters of credit, bank credits or bank guarantees. Approval for financing is considered on a case-by-case basis.

Canadian Commercial Corporation

The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) gives Canadian companies access to financing and better payment terms under the Progress Payment Program (PPP). The PPP concept was developed as a partnership between major Canadian financial institutions and the CCC. It enables the exporter's bank to open a project line of credit for the exporter's benefit, based on CCC approval of the project and the exporter's ability to perform. The CCC will also act as a prime contractor on behalf of Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises, giving those businesses increased credibility and competitive advantage.

Program for Export Market Development

The Program for Export Market Development (PEMD) helps Canadian companies enter new markets by sharing the costs of activities that companies normally could not or would not undertake alone, thereby reducing risks involved in entering a foreign market. Eligible costs and activities include market visits, trade fair participation abroad, incoming buyers, product testing for market certification, legal fees for international marketing agreements, air transportation costs of offshore company trainees, product demonstration costs and other costs necessary to execute a market development plan. Activity costs are shared on a pre-approved, 50/50 basis.

The PEMD refundable contribution ranges from $5,000 to a maximum of $50,000. Preference is given to companies with fewer than 100 employees for a firm in the manufacturing sector and 50 in the service industry, or with annual sales between $250,000 and $10 million. Other components of the program include international bid preparation (Capital Projects Bidding) and, for trade associations, developing international marketing activities for their membership. For additional information visit http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/pemd/menu-e.asp  or call 1-888-811-1119.

WIN Exports

WIN Exports, a database of Canadian exporters and their capabilities, is used by trade commissioners around the world and by Team Canada Inc partners in Canada to match Canadian suppliers with foreign business leads, and to share information on trade events. To register your company in WIN Exports or for more information, visit http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/winexports/home_e.html  or call 1-888-811-1119

PRIVATE-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

There are a number of small and medium-sized enterprises Canadian companies can target to sell technology and feed products. For a listing of biotechnology and aquaculture companies active in the sector and recently in the media that may represent opportunities, contact the Canadian High Commission in Australia.

PUBLIC-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

Traditional customers/partners in the public sector include:

• research institutions;
• CSIRO;
• government departments; and
• university research departments.

Government Procurement Regulations

Australia's government procurement system is considered to be fair, with few restrictions on foreign bidders. However, Australia has not signed the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement and, as such, is not bound by tender conditions that prohibit the specification of locally made products. Government buyers are, in fact, obliged to consider local content when making purchasing decisions.

The Australian federal and state governments, through specified preferences for local suppliers, have created a source of contention with several trading partners, particularly the United States. The Australian government has recently announced that it will re-examine the WTO government procurement standards in order to review the balance in trade practice. However, the preference for local manufacturers is strong and unlikely to end, particularly in some of the state governments, such as Queensland, which are very parochial in their approval of local suppliers. This may be overcome by establishing an office presence in that state.

MARKET LOGISTICS

Channels of Distribution

Direct Sales

Although direct sales enable retailers to keep costs to a minimum and thereby lower the price of imported products to the consumer, many Canadian exporters prefer to work through a distributor/wholesaler because of their knowledge of Australian import regulations and procedures. However, as Australian import regulations are relaxed and retailers become more accustomed to purchasing directly from Canadian exporters, the number of direct sales is expected to steadily increase.

If entering the market through direct sales, exporters must ensure a means of providing reliable, ongoing after-sales services to their customers. Exporters selling through direct marketing are also responsible for ensuring that their products conform to local requirements and for assigning an Australian "sponsor" for the products in compliance with local regulations.

Distributors and Wholesalers

The most common and effective method for new companies to market aquaculture products and services in Australia is through the appointment of a distributor, although several larger companies have successfully entered the market by establishing their own distribution networks. Local distributors are generally smaller operations; however, there is a growing number of larger wholesaling operations.

It is advisable to have representation, for both distribution and support, in each of the Australian states for comprehensive coverage. Companies with representation in only Sydney (New South Wales) and Melbourne (Victoria) are likely to miss out on important contracts in the smaller states. A common practice, particularly for high-volume products, is to appoint one or two national distributors and several niche distributors.

Exclusive territorial distributorship arrangements are the norm.

Joint Ventures

Foreign companies may wish to enter into a joint-venture (JV) arrangement with domestic enterprises active in the aquaculture industry sector. A JV enable a foreign investor to avoid the need to incorporate an Australian subsidiary or register as a foreign corporation. It also affords a foreign company access to the partner's established business networks and market knowledge, and can significantly expand the product and/or service range offered by either company.

Australian companies are extremely receptive to JV arrangements, particularly in cases where high costs or specialized technology/services are involved. Establishing a JV with an Australian partner can also be an appropriate method of gaining access to the larger Asia-Pacific markets. Australia lacks any legislation directly governing JV arrangements in the country; JVs, therefore, are solely regulated by the terms of the joint-venture agreement between the individual parties.

Market-entry Considerations

Suggested Business Practices

Canadians and Australians share a common culture, governance and legal structures, but these similarities should not be over-emphasized. Australia's overall economic goals are to foster export markets because of the limited size of its domestic market. Particular focus is on high-technology industries and Asian markets. With this in mind, Canadian companies should gear their products or services to further these goals, in partnership with Australian firms.

Canadian companies should be well-versed on the Australian industry make-up, including major biotech companies, research groups and government departments, in order to understand local business contacts and source opportunities. Whether doing business in the public or the private sector, Canadian companies will benefit by building a reputation for knowledge and expertise. This can be done by fostering and sponsoring industry exchanges, and by attending conferences and educational venues that inevitably lead to firm business contacts.

Personal contact and developing relationships are necessary to gaining access to markets. Local representation is important, and, as marine biotechnology involves specialized knowledge, exporters should ensure that local representatives are wellexperienced and maintain good personal contacts throughout the industry.

Import Regulations

Products entering Australia must comply with all relevant sections of the Australia's Food Standards Code; particularly with Standards 1.4.1 on Contaminants and Natural Toxicants, and Standard 2.2.3 on Fish and Fish Product. The Food Standards Code can be consulted at the following web site: http://www.anzfa.gov.au

Moreover, prior to exporting a product to Australia, an exporter should ensure their products comply with relevant Australian quarantine rules. It is also advisable to contact the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service and to consult AQIS' Import Conditions web site (http://www.aqis.gov.au/icon/asp/ex_querycontent.asp).

Canadian companies must also meet export requirements for fish products and biotechnology products set out by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Further information can be obtained from the CFIA website (http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/toce.shtml).

Documentation

The documentation needed to clear customs and import goods into Australia is normally the responsibility of the local company importing the goods, although shipping and invoice documentation is the supplier's responsibility. Standard documentation includes:

• shipping documents;
• commercial and/or pro forma invoice;
• bills of lading;
• packing list;
• certificate of origin (not always needed); and
• special certification, required by the government for plant varieties and health products, animal products and medical products and equipment.

The importer in Australia must also obtain an import permit from AQIS and will be granted permission to import based on the conditions specified on the permit. Different conditions for the importer may be specified on the permit based on whether the product is for retail or direct retail sale or commercial processing. Product is considered to be for direct retail sale when each piece is in an individual sleeve in a carton of any size or many pieces are in a plastic bag in a carton of 60 lb/27.3 kg or less. There is no limit on the number of cartons. Product is considered to be for commercial processing when bulk-packed (e.g. not in individual sleeves) in containers greater than 27.3 kg. There is a new check-box on the certificate, in order that importers and authorities in Australia may determine into which category (direct retail sale, retail sale or commercial processing) the product falls.

In addition, all biological products require permits that can be obtained by submitting a written application to AQIS.

Intellectual Property Protection

Australia has legislation covering patents, trademarks, copyrights (including computer software), industrial designs, confidential information, plant varieties, business names and trading styles. Its legal system is a mixture of common law and statute, similar to the Canadian legal system.

Australia is a member of most major international conventions on intellectual property, including the Paris Union of Intellectual Property, the Berne Convention, the Hague Agreement, the Universal Copyright Convention and the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Patents and other forms of intellectual property protection and registration must be registered with the Australian Intellectual Property Organization.

Local Standards, Certificates or Registrations

The regulation of Australia's aquaculture industry is carried out through all levels of government. State and territory governments are responsible for the operational development of aquaculture in Australia and support the industry through numerous national programs aimed at research and business development. Their responsibilities include:

• issuing licences;
• funding research;
• fish health diagnostics;
• food safety;
• education and advisory services; and
• assisting with business and export development.

State legislation also covers environmental issues such as water supplies and waste water, as well as uncontrolled development as a way to control disease and limit potentially harmful environmental affects.

The Australian Seafood Industry Council (ASIC), funded by state industry fishing councils, is the main agency that collectively represents the states' commercial fishing, aquaculture and post-harvest seafood industries.

Municipal governments are accountable for ensuring that zoning processes under their ordinance, used to determine sites for facilities, does not adversely affect the environment.

According to the National Aquaculture Council, the role of the Australia Government in the industry includes:

• ensuring ecologically sustainable development of the industry;
• funding research and education;
• providing quarantine and inspection services;
• co-ordinating fish health management services;
• co-ordinating food safety issues;
• facilitating market access and trade;
• developing international relations;
• assisting with business development; and
• working with the states and Northern Territory on issues requiring national co-ordination.

Environmental protection issues are also covered in the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC), which came into affect in 2000. This Act, which replaced five Commonwealth statutes, protects marine species and environments from threatening processes or activities. Additional information can be obtained at the EPBC Web site (http://www.ea.gov.au/epbc).

The Australia New Zealand Food Authority is a bi-national organization that develops and enforces food standards in the Food Standards Code. All foods sold in Australia must follow safety guidelines set out in the Code.

Australia is an active member of the WTO, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Export Credit Risks, Restrictions on Letters of Credit, Currency Controls

There are currently no restrictions on letters of credit (L/Cs) or currency controls in Australia.

Payment is usually conducted via Irrevocable L/Cs, particularly for large or high-value shipments. Pre-payment may be required for smaller amounts. Fixed payment terms are usually 60-90 days. Open account and commercial bills of exchange (time and sight drafts) may also be used.

PROMOTIONAL EVENTS

Event:
Fish International 2003
February 2003 (Annual)
Breman Fair Hall Center 4, 5 and 6
Congress Centre
Bremen, Germany

Organizer:
MGH GmbH, Bürgerweide
28209 Bremen, Germany
Tel.: (04-21) 3505-260
Fax: (04-21) 3505-681
E-mail: info@fishinternational.de
Internet: http://www.fishinternational.com/home.htm

Event:
Aquaculture International and Fishing 2003
April 2003 (Annual)
The Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre
Glasgow, UK

Organizer:
Heighway Events
21 John St.
London, UK WC1N 2BP
Tel.: (44-0) 207-505-3572
Fax: (44-0) 207-831-2509
E-mail: clare.northcott@informa.com
Internet: http://www.heighwayevents.com/aq2002/index.htm

Event:
World Aquaculture 2004
April 2004 (Biennial)
Beijing Convention Center
Beijing, China

International Aquaculture Conference and Expo.

Organizer:
World Aquaculture 2002
Conference Manager
2423 Fallbrook Place
Escondido, CA 92027
Tel.: (760) 432-4270
Fax: (760) 432-4275
E-mail: worldaqua@aol.com

KEY CONTACTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Canadian Government Contacts

Canadian High Commission in Australia
Commonwealth Ave.
Canberra, ACT Australia
Tel.: (011-61-2) 6270-4000
Fax: (011-61-2) 6270-4069
Contact: Pierre Desmarais, Second Secretary
E-mail: pierre.desmarais@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.org.au

Consulate General of Canada in Sydney
Level 5, Quay West
111 Harrington St.
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Tel.: (011-61-2) 9364-3000
Fax: (011-61-2) 9364-3097
E-mail: sydny-td@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.org.au

Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC)
50 O'Connor St., 11th Floor
Ottawa, ON K1A 0S6
Tel.: 1-800-748-8191 or (613) 996-0034
Fax: (613) 995-2121
E-mail: info@ccc.ca
Internet: http://www.ccc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
59 Camelot Dr.
Nepean, ON K1A 0Y9
Tel.: (613) 225-2342
Fax: (613) 228-6653
E-mail: cfiamaster@agr.gc.ca

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT)
125 Sussex Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Internet: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Authentication and Service of Documents (JLAC)
Tel.: (613) 992-6602
Fax: (613) 992-2467

Korea and Oceania Division (PKE)
Tel.: (613) 995-1183
Fax: (613) 996-1248

Market Support Division (TCM)
Tel.: (613) 995-1773
Fax: (613) 943-1103

Export Development Canada (EDC)
151 O'Connor St.
Ottawa, ON K1A 1K3
Tel.: 1-888-332-4593 or (613) 598-2500
Fax: (613) 598-6697
E-mail: export@edc4.edc.ca
Internet: http://www.edc.ca

Fisheries and Oceans Canada
200 Kent St.
13th Floor, Station 13228
Ottawa, ON K1A 0E6
Tel.: (613) 993-0999
Fax: (613) 990-1866
E-mail: info@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/index.htm

Office of the Commissioner for Aquaculture Development
427 Laurier Ave. WSuite 1210
Ottawa, ON K1A OE6
Tel.: (613) 993-8603
Fax: (613) 993-8607
Internet: http://ocad-bcda.gc.ca

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Regional Trade Contacts

Al McIsaac
St. John's, Nfld.
Tel.: (709) 772-0330
E-mail: mcisaaca@agr.gc.ca

Rollin Andrew
Charlottetown, P.E.I.
Tel.: (902) 566-7315
E-mail: andrewr@agr.gc.ca

Fay Abizadeh
Winnipeg, Man.
Tel.: (204) 983-8622
E-mail: abizadehf@agr.gc.ca

Margaret Bancroft
New Westminster, B.C.
Tel.: (604) 666-3054
E-mail: bancroftm@agr.gc.ca

Janet Steele
Halifax, N.S.
Tel.: (902) 426-7171
E-mail: steelej@agr.gc.ca

Sandra Gagné
Montreal, Que.
Tel.: (514) 283-3815 ext 523
E-mail: gagnes@agr.gc.ca

Jim Atcheson
Regina, Sask.
Tel.: (306) 780-5545
E-mail: atchesonj@agr.gc.ca

Bernard Mallet
Moncton, N.B.
Tel.: (506) 452-3706
E-mail: malletb@agr.gc.ca

Wayne Parlee
Guelph, Ont.
Tel.: (519) 837-5824
E-mail: parleew@agr.gc.ca

Lorrie McFadden
Edmonton, Atla.
Tel.: (780) 495-2119
E-mail: mcfaddenl@agr.gc.ca

International Trade Centres

For export counselling or publications for Canadian exporters, contact a local International Trade Centre at 1-888-811-1119.

Australian Government Contacts

Australian Consulate and Trade Commission
888 Dunsmuir St., Suite 1225
Vancouver, BC V6C 3K4
Tel.: (604) 684-1177
Fax: (604) 684-1856
E-mail: rapid-mgr.vancouver@austrade.gov.au
Internet: http://www.austrade.gov.au

Australia New Zealand Food Authority
Boeing House
55 Blackall St.
Barton ACT 2600, Australia

Mailing address:
PO Box 7186
Canberra Mail Centre ACT 2610
Tel.: (61-2) 6271-2222
Fax: (61-2) 6271-2278
E-mail: info@anzfa.gov.au
Internet: http://www.anzfa.gov.au

Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics
GPO Box 1563
Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 6272-2000
Fax: (61-2) 6272-2330
Internet: http://www.abare.gov.au

Australian Customs Service
Import and Export Control
5 Constitution Ave.
Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 6275 6666
Fax: (61-2) 6275 6999
Internet: http://www.customs.gov.au

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
R.G. Casey BuildingJohn McEwen Cr.
Barton ACT 0221, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 6261-1111
Fax: (61-2) 6261-3111
Internet: http://www.dfat.gov.au

Australian Fisheries Management Authority
C/O 7 Ellam St. 6100
Victoria Park, Australia
Tel.: (618) 9470-2052
Fax: (618) 9361-8624
E-mail: ksaunders@fish.wa.gov.au

Australian Institute of Marine Science
PMB No. 3
Townsville MC, QLD 4810, Australia
Tel.: (61-7) 4753-4444
Fax: (61-7) 4772-5852
Internet: http://www.aims.gov.au

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)
Bag 10
Clayton South VIC 3169, Australia
Tel.: (61-3) 6276-6000
Fax: (61-3) 9545-2175
Internet: http://www.csiro.au

CSIRO Food Science Australia
16 Julius Ave.
Riverside Corporate Park
Delhi Rd.
North Ryde NSW 2113, Australia

Mailing address:
PO Box 52
North Ryde NSW 1670, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 9490 8333
Fax: (61-2) 9490 8499
Internet: http://www.dfst.csiro.au

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australia (AFFA)
Edmund Barton Building
Broughton St., Barton
GPO Box 858
Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 6272-3933
Internet: http://www.affa.gov.au

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service
Tel.: (61-2) 6272-3933
Internet: http://www.affa.gov.au

National Aquaculture Development Committee
GPO Box 293
Hobart TAS 7001, Australia
Tel.: (03) 6211-6662
Fax: (03) 6211-6668
E-mail: pshelly@appanel.com.au

Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries
(Northern Territory, Australia)
Berrimah Farm, Makagon Rd.
Berrimah NT 0828, Australia
Internet: http://www.nt.gov.au/dpif

Darwin Aquaculture Centre
Channel Island, Darwin Harbour
GPO Box 990
Darwin NT 0801, Australia
Tel.: (61-8) 8924-4258
Fax: (61-8) 8924-4277
E-mail: shelleyc@ozemail.com.au

Fisheries and Aquaculture Development of the Department of Primary Industries (DPI)
Primary Industries Building
80 Ann St.
Brisbane QLD, Australia

Mailing address:
GPO Box 46
Brisbane QLD 4001, Australia
Tel.: (61-07) 3404-6999
Fax: (61-07) 3404-6900
Internet: http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/thematiclists/1028.html

Fisheries Department of Western Australia
3rd Floor, SGIO Atrium
168-170 St. Georges Terrace
Perth WA 6000, Australia
Tel.: (618) 9482-7333
Fax: (618) 9482-7390
Internet: http://www.wa.gov.au/westfish

Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Fisheries Research House
25 Geils Crt.
Deakin ACT, Australia

Mailing address:
PO Box 222
Deakin West ACT 2600, Australia
Tel.: (02) 6285-0400
Fax: (02) 6285-4421
E-mail: frdc@frdc.com.au
Internet: http://www.frdc.com.au

Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria Limited
ACN 006 728 785
Royal Melbourne Showgrounds
Epsom Rd.
Ascot Vale VIC 3032, Australia
Tel.: (61-3) 9281-7444
Fax: (61-3) 9376-2973
Internet: http://www.rasv.com.au

Standards Australia
286 Sussex St.
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 8206-6748
Fax: (61) 8206-6020
E-mail: research@standards.com.au
Internet: http://www.standards.com.au/catalogue/script/se arch.asp

Industry Associations

Aquaculture Association of Queensland Inc.
PO Box 415
Childers QLD 4660, Australia
Tel.: (07) 4126-1402
Fax: (07) 4126-1423
E-mail: isispastoral@isisog.com.au
Internet: http://www.aaq.com.au

Aquaculture Council of Western Australia
Suite 6/41 Walters Dr.
Osbourne Park WA, Australia
Tel.: (61-8) 9244-2933
Fax: (61-8) 9244-2934
E-mail: acwa@aquaculturecouncilwa.com
Internet: http://www.aquaculturecouncilwa.com

Australian Aquaculture Centre
PO Box 240
West Kempsey NSW 2440, Australia
Tel.: (61-2) 6569-0034
Fax: (61-2) 6569-0043
E-mail: aqua@aquaculture.com.au
Internet: http://www.aquaculture.com.au

Australian Federation of Shellfish Farmers
C/- Cheetham Salt Ltd
PO Box 165
North Shore VIC 3214, Australia
Tel.: (03) 5275-8000
Fax: (03) 5274-1213

Australian Freshwater Crayfish Farmers
Association (National)
PO Box 683
Bordertown SA 5268, Australia
Tel./Fax: (08) 8758-4000

Australian Prawn Farmers Association
PO Box 2064
Bribie Island QLD 4507, Australia
Tel.: (02) 6655-4638
Fax: (02) 6655-4463

Australian Seafood Industry Council
PO Box 533
Curtin ACT 2605, Australia
Tel.: (02) 6281-0383
Fax: (02) 6281-0438
E-mail: asic@asic.org.au
Internet: http://www.asic.org.au

Australian Trout & Salmon Farmers Association
PO Box 258
Alexandra VIC 3714, Australia
Tel.: (03) 5773-2483
Fax: (03) 5773-2486

Barramundi Farmers' Association of Australia
PO Box 19
Mourilyan QLD 4853, Australia
Tel.: (070) 654-756
Fax: (070) 654-852

Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance
907-75 Albert St.
Ottawa, ON K1P 5E7
Tel.: (613) 239-0612
Fax: (613) 239-0619
E-mail: caiaoffice@aquaculture.ca
Internet: http://www.aquaculture.ca

Commercial Marron Farmers Association of Western Australia
PO Box 19
Moonyoonooka WA 6532, Australia
Tel./Fax: (08) 9840-8008

NSW Cultured Mussel Growers Association
PO Box 673
Eden NSW 2551, Australia
Tel./Fax: (02) 6496-3039

NSW Silver Perch Growers Association
C/- Mulquinneys Rd.
Braunstone NSW 2460, Australia
Tel.: (066) 49-3528

Ornamental Fish Producers Association
PO Box 853
Nedlands WA 6606, Australia
Tel.: (08) 9383-2389
Fax: (08) 9383-2738
E-mail: pearlwa@opera.iinet.net.au

Oyster Farmers Association of NSW, Australia
PO Box 254
Turramurra NSW 2074, Australia
Tel.: (02) 9487-3566
Fax: (02) 9487-1849
Internet: http://www.oysterfarmers.asn.au

Tasmanian Abalone Council
Macquarie Wharf No. 1
Hunter St.
Hobart TAS 7000, Australia
Tel.: (61-3) 6231-1955
Fax: (61-3) 6231-1966
E-mail: tac@tassie.net.au
Internet: http://www.tasabalone.com.au

Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association
PO Box 1094
Sandy Bay TAS 7006, Australia
Tel.: (03) 6225-0904
Fax: (03) 6225-0904
E-mail: mail@tsga.com.au
Internet: http://www.tsga.com.au

Tasmania Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute
GPO Box 252-49
Hobart TAS 7001, Australia
Tel.: (61-3) 6227-7277
Fax: (61-3) 6227-8035
E-mail: tafi@utas.edu.au
Internet: http://www.utas.edu.au/docs/tafi/TAFI_Homepag e.html

Warmwater Aquaculture Association
30 Cecil St.
Kew VIC 3101, Australia
Tel.: (623) 9817-3043
E-mail: mosig@smart.net.au

Yabby Producers Association of WA
PO Box 55
Mount Hawthorn WA 6915, Australia
Tel.: (089) 244-2933
Fax: (09) 244-2934

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Print

Asia Pulse. "South Australian Aquaculture Industry to Access Chilean Technology," February 22, 2000.

- "Salinity Could Allow Saltwater Fish Farms in Australia's Interior," May 28, 2001.

Australia. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. "National Aquaculture Development Committee: Aquaculture Industry Action Agenda," June 2001.

Australian Financial Review. "Australia: Aquaculture Growth Promising," June 24, 2000.

- "Big Fish Takes Bite of Tassal," February 20, 2001.

- "Research Centre Shells Out for Perfect Lobster," April 11, 2001.

- "Into the Breach," April 27, 2001.

- "Reaping a Barra Harvest," September 5, 2001.

Canberra Times. "Scientist Called in to Catch Fish Bug," May 10, 2001.

- "Plan to Reinvigorate South-East Region," August 10, 2001.

- "Farm-Fresh Fish on Menu," September 19, 2001.

Dow Jones. "Dutch Nutreco Takes Stakes in Australia's Pivot, Tassal," February 9, 2001.

- "Asia Set to Lap Up Booming Australian Fish Exports," March 1, 2001.

- "Time of Trial for Giants Among Shrimps," March 16, 2001.

- "Ocean Fish Given Desert Home," May 29, 2001.

- "New Kit to Combat Prawn Disease," June 15, 2001.

- "Beijing Develops a Taste for Yabbies," July 7, 2001.

- "Scientists Chew the Fat Over Salmon Farming," July 22, 2001.

- "Selective Breeding Builds Better Aquaculture," September 27, 2001.

Dun & Bradstreet Inc. Exporter's Encyclopaedia: Australia, 2001.

IBIS. "Aquaculture in Australia," August 2001.

Profound. "Huge Cash Boost to State Fish Research," January 19, 2001.

- "Profile of Australia's Fishing Industry," May 1, 2001.

- "Failed Fish Farm on Market Offered Up on a Plate," June 5, 2001.

- "Fish Farming May Move Inland," June 20, 2001.

- "War Declared on Urchin Pest," July 21, 2001.

- "Perfecting the Prawn," September 26, 2001.

- "CSIRO: Selective Breeding Builds Better Aquaculture," September 27, 2001.

- "Stolt-Neilsen Unit to Buy Australian Bluefin PTY," October 13, 2001.

Seafood International. "Eels May be Australia's Next Aquaculture Venture," September 1, 2000.

Weekend Australian. "Fish Farms Industry Scales Up," June 30, 2001.

Electronic

Australia. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australia. "New Developments in Aquaculture," November 8, 2001, downloaded from http://www.affa.gov.au/content/output.cfm?ObjectID=
D2C48F86-BA1A-11A1-A2200060B0A00881 on Novenber 14, 2001.

Australia. Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics. "Australian Fish Facts," downloaded from http://www.abare.gov.au/pdf/fishfacts.pdf on November 16, 2001.

Australia. Bureau of Rural Sciences. "Aquaculture," June 2, 2000, downloaded from http://www.brs.gov.au/fish/aqua.html on November 9, 2001.

Australia. Bureau of Statistics. "Forestry and Fishing: Aquaculture," 2001, downloaded from http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/94713ad445ff
1425ca25682000192af2/b9d3b060cb65d703ca2569de0026efd
6!OpenDocument on November 8, 2001.

- "Management of Australia's Coastal and Marine Environment," 2001, downloaded from http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/
94713ad445ff1425ca25682000192af2/b9888069af1fd
70fca2569de00267e4e!OpenDocument on November 8, 2001.

Canada. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. "Australia-Agri-Food Country Profile Statistical Update," August 2001, downloaded from http://ats.agr.ca/public/htmldocs/e3202.htm on November 8, 2001.

Canada. Canadian Food Inspection Agency. "Foreign Country Certification Requirements: Australia," September 2, 1995, downloaded from http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/fispoi/
export/cert10/ausause.shtml on November 16, 2001.

- "Exports of Fresh and Frozen Salmonids to Australia," June 2000, downloaded from http://inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/fispoi/export/commun1e.shtml on November 16, 2001.

Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. "Agri-Food Sector Profile: Australia," January 2001, downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/docs/P34001-e.pdf on November 8, 2001.

- "Australian National Food industry Strategy," November 2001, downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/docs/au_foodstrategy-e.pdf on November 8, 2001.

Canada. Office of the Commissioner for Aquaculture Development. "Canadian aquaculture Industry Profile," May 17, 2001, downloaded from http://ocad-bcda.gc.ca/eaquaculture.html on November 9, 2001.

CSIRO Marine Research. "Aquaculture in Australia," April 5, 1999, downloaded from http://www.marine.csiro.au/LeafletsFolder/pdfsheets/05aquacu.pdf on November 8, 2001.

- "Farming Freshwater Yabbies," August 27, 2001, downloaded from http://www.csiro.au/index.asp?type=faq&id=Yabby%20Farming&
stylesheet=sectorInformationSheet on November 20, 2001.

IntraFish. "Warmer Seas Costing Tassal $3 Million," July 2001, downloaded from http://www.intrafish.com/article.php?articleID=13894 on October 31, 2001.

- "Australia Makes Barramundi Cod Breakthrough," July 9, 2001, downloaded from http://www.intrafish.com/article.php?articleID=13975 on October 31, 2001.

- "Fish Hatchery Expands in Tasmania," August 11, 2000, downloaded from http://www.intrafish.com/print.php?articleID=8447 on October 31, 2001.

- "450th Aquaculture Licence Granted in Western Australia," October 25, 2001, downloaded from http://www.intrafish.com/article.php?articleID=17279 on October 31, 2001.

- "First Offshore Snapper Farm for New South Wales," November 1, 2001, downloaded from http://www.intrafish.com/article.php?articleID=17504 on November 20, 2001.

United States. Department of Agriculture. "Hotel, Restaurant, Institutional Food Service Sector," 2000 downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200004/25647304.pdf on November 15, 2001.

- "Canada-Fishery Products: Canada and Australia Reach Agreement on Salmon," May 17, 2000, downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200005/25677579.pdf on November 9, 2001.

- "Australia-Food Processing Ingredients Sector 2000," June 20, 2000, downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200006/25697994.pdf on November 9, 2001.

- "Canada-Fishery Products Annual 2001," October 17, 2001, downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200110/130682312.pdf on November 9, 2001.

Western Australia. Department of Industry and Technology. "Opportunities in Aquaculture," August 2000, downloaded from http://www.commerce.indtech.wa.gov.au/bigwa/
reginv/opportun/aqua.htm on November 8, 2001.

OTHER REFERENCE MATERIAL

Useful Internet Sites

Agri-Food Trade Service: http://atn-riae.agr.ca

Aquaculture: Industrial Activities: http://bravo.ic.gc.ca/biotech/aqua/aquaindl.htm

AquaNet: http://www.aquanet.mun.ca

Aquatic Network-Business Opportunities: http://www.aquanet.com/busdir/busopp/aq_bus1.htm

Australian Bureau of Statistics: http://www.abs.gov.au

Australian Food News: http://www.ausfoodnews.com.au

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Department of Industry and Technology in Western Australia-Opportunities in Aquaculture: http://www.commerce.indtech.wa.gov.au/bigwa/
reginv/opportun/aqua.htm

ExportSource: http://exportsource.ca

Fish and Seafood Online: http://atn-riae.agr.ca/seafood

Fisheries Statistics and Economics: http://www.st.nmfs.gov

Fisheries Western Australia: http://www.wa.gov.au/westfish

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: http://www.fao.org

Globefish: http://www.globefish.org

InfoExport: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca

InfoFish: http://www.jaring.my/infofish

Inland Production of Marine Fish: http://www.rirdc.gov.au/pub/handbook/inland.html

Intrafish: http://www.intrafish.com/aquaculture

Seafood International: http://www.sif.is

Seafood.com: http://www.seafood.com

1 All monetary amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated. The conversion rate to Canadian dollars is based on IDD Information Services, Tradeline, November 2001.

2 For contact information regarding key organizations mentioned in this report, see Key Contacts.