Vegetable Industry Calls for Fair Cost Sharing Amid Conflict

Australia’s vegetable industry is urging supply chain partners to act in good faith, as rising input costs linked to the Middle East conflict place growers under increasing pressure.

In its latest advocacy update, AUSVEG has called for a coordinated national response to safeguard fresh produce supply and protect food security.

The organisation says escalating prices for fuel, fertiliser and freight are already affecting growers, with some costs reportedly doubling in a matter of days.

It warns that vegetable producers, who typically operate as price-takers, have little capacity to pass these increases on to buyers.

AUSVEG is now encouraging all participants across the supply chain to engage constructively, ensuring cost pressures are shared more equitably.

The group is also pushing for government intervention, including prioritised fuel access for fresh produce growers and stronger efforts to secure fertiliser imports.

It says contingency planning is essential, with the potential for future rationing requiring clear systems to avoid disruption to production and distribution.

Concerns extend beyond the farm gate, with labour mobility and transport logistics also at risk if fuel shortages intensify, particularly in regional areas.

AUSVEG maintains that a unified approach is critical to maintaining affordable access to fresh vegetables, while protecting the long-term viability of the industry.