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Subsidy move sours olive harvest success
15 Jun 2004
South Australia's biggest-ever olive harvest is coming to a close, with an estimated production of three million litres of oil worth up to $20 million. But despite this harvest success, the industry is dismayed by a Customs Service decision to end an inquiry into subsidised European olive oil imports.
About $120 million worth of olive oil comes into Australia each year, with a subsidy of $1.75 a litre. But if Australia tries to export olive oil to Europe, the EU charges an import duty of $2.31 a litre. Much of the imported oil is low-grade African oil blended in Europe.
Australia's olive growers have begun lobbying federal MPs due to the threat posed to the local industry. They say that Customs should re-open its investigation. The industry has until June 24 to appeal the Customs Service decision.
All we are asking for is a level playing field and an opportunity to develop the industry, one grower said.
The Advertiser, 9/6/04.
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