A consumer survey conducted by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) report  found four major trends in China’s packaged food market: the gradual return of consumer confidence in domestic brands; preference for attractive packaging and international flavors; diversity of online and physical sales channels; and growing popularity of organic varieties. The rise in popularity of organic products echoes a shift of consumer interest in food ‘safety’ to ‘health.’ A rise in income and a drop in the price of organic foods is also seen as part of the increased interest in organic products. Organic and Wellness News reports that the organic market in China is about one percent of the food market, or about US$2.5 billion. 

Total value of the organic market in Australia is expected to reach AU$2 billion by 2018. In some categories, demand is outstripping supply in Australia and around the world, including grains, fruit and vegetables, livestock feed and red meat. More than two-thirds of Australian households reported purchasing at least one organic product in 2016, with fruit and vegetables, dairy and home-cooking ingredients the leading categories that year. Most shoppers in Australia buy organic products at the supermarket, and 44 percent of shoppers look for a certification logo. 

Soil Association Certification has taken a closer look at organic supply chains in a new report, ‘Organic Supply Chain 2017: Challenges and Opportunities’ that includes a range of case studies, showcasing brands and businesses with inspiring solutions. The report makes key recommendations for strengthening supply chains, including: making effective use of tech solutions that improve efficiency and confidence; increasing transparency and better collaboration along the supply chain to affirm trust and build market stability; reducing UK reliance on organic imports to support domestic production; and developing understanding of growth markets such as export and foodservice to maximize success.