Australian Craft Cider More than a Niche

The national cider industry board says craft cider is carving out more than a niche in the alcoholic beverage market.

Cider Australia members recently met at the organisation’s 2017 Annual General Meeting in Melbourne to discuss the effects of the Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) Rebate reform on the Australian cider industry.

Cider Australia President and co-owner of Tasmania’s Willie Smith’s Organic Apple Cider Sam Reid said, “Producers are in high spirits as the tax reform debate comes to a positive conclusion – we applaud the Government’s WET Rebate reforms and believe the changes will ensure the longevity of the Australian cider industry.

“There is a real opportunity for Australian cider to follow in the footsteps of the wine industry and contribute to growing Australian exports.

“The cider industry must now focus on building product integrity to put Australian cider exports on a sustainable growth path, leading with quality first and foremost.

“Stronger product integrity is crucial before the cider industry establishes a significant export footprint.”

The organisation is hopeful of securing funding under the Government’s $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package to implement a standalone cider production standard.