Lychee market ripe for family-run businesses in Central Queensland

Despite the many challenges the horticultural industry has faced this year, lychee growers in Central Queensland have reason to celebrate. Key points: Central Queensland lychee growers report a strong season and high demand for the fruit Transport and export issues remain a concern for the horticultural industry The market for lychees is vibrant, with demand for new varieties Ian Groves, a Yeppoon-based tropical fruit farmer, said the market was ripe for growers. "We were looking at around 80 to 100 tonnes this year, which is the largest pick that we've done here," Ms Caton said. "We are experiencing difficulties with export — the exporters can't get enough air freight space and this makes things tough," Mr Groves said. "There's a driver shortage going interstate where they're under pressure with COVID rules," Mr Groves said.