Watermelon Production in Australia (2019)

Overview

Watermelons are generally produced all across Australia. However, the majority of the amount is found in the northern states. Most of the fruit that is produced is saved for the fresh fruit market. Nonetheless, there is a small volume that is reserved for export.

Statistics

1. 228,809 tonnes of watermelons were produced throughout the year. The value was estimated at $106.9 million.
2. The supply per capita was estimated at 6.3 kg, based on the volume that was supplied.
3. The wholesale value of the fresh supply amounted to $113 million, whereas $90.1 million was reserved for retail and $22.5 went into food service.
4. On their grocery trip, 49% of Australians purchased watermelons, amounting to 1.8 kg per trip.

Major Watermelon Production Areas

These fruits are produced in almost all states located in Australia. However, the majority of this fruit is produced in the northern part of the country. Some of the major producing areas include: Riverina and Cowra in New South Wales, Darwin and Katherine in the Northern Territory, Kununarra in Western Australia and Chinchilla in Queensland.

Watermelon Production by State

Health Benefits of Watermelons

The firuit contains around 90% water, which makes it useful for staying hydrated in the summer. It can also satisfy a sweet tooth with its natural sugars. Watermelon also contains antioxidants. These substances eliminate molecules known as free radicals, or reactive species, from the body. The body produces free radicals during natural processes, such as metabolism. They can also develop through smoking, air pollution,  and other environmental pressures. If too many free radicals stay in the body, oxidative stress can occur. This can result in cell damage and may lead to a range of diseases. The body can remove some free radicals naturally, but dietary antioxidants support this process.

Fresh Watermelons International Trade

Australia is majorly considered to be a net exporter of this fruit. In fact, the exports have rapidly increased in the last few years. As of June 2019, this nation has exported 7,312 tonnes of watermelons.

Fresh Watermelon Exports by Country

Article by: Hari Yellina (Orchard Tech)