Japanese firm considers opening a vegetable plant in Tasmania

Posted by Daniel Palmer on 28th January 2010

A leading Japanese company is looking at the prospect of buying Tasmanian vegetables and fish and may even set up a vegetable processing plant in the Apple Isle.

Late last year McCain Foods said they would be shutting down their Tasmanian vegetable processing plant in November 2010, a move that would leave a significant void in the market. And, while it is early days in negotiations, Primary Industries Minister David Llewellyn has said there is interest from a major Japanese food firm in filling that void.

“They need to explore the possibilities,” Mr Llewellyn said, according to the ABC. “I’ve outlined to them the benefits and opportunities that now exist in Tasmania and I think that they’re prepared to look at those issues and take them on board and see what’s possible.”

Mr Llewellyn did not name the company but noted that McCain’s departure would present a great opportunity for new players to enter the market.