‘Patriotic Choice’ Needed: SPC Cuts Canned Fruit Orders As Cheap Imports Dominate

A key farming body says if Australian shoppers don’t buy Australian fruit, it may end up unavailable.

Assorted canned fruit and vegetables made by SPC Ardmona pictured in Brisbane, Australia, on Feb. 5, 2014. AAP Image/Dan Peled

Australia’s fruit industry has encouraged shoppers to make the “patriotic choice” after food manufacturer SPC announced it would slash its canned fruit production as cheaper imported alternatives eat into market share.

The Shepparton, Victoria-based SPC will reduce its orders of Australian peaches and pears by 40 percent for the upcoming season, and says it hopes produce volumes can normalise in 2026.