Prune industry international study tour – 2026 IPA Congress, Italy (DP25002)

Project start date: 25 February 2026 
Project end date: 9 October 2026 

This project will deliver a targeted international study tour for Australian prune growers and industry representatives, combining attendance at the 2026 International Prune Association (IPA) Congress in Italy with technical visits to leading production and processing regions. 

Participants will engage with international researchers, breeders and commercial operators to benchmark best practice in prune and stone fruit production, drying, processing and market development. The itinerary may extend to France if planning confirms value, allowing participants to learn from the internationally recognised Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) prune production model and processing innovations. 

Learnings will be shared nationally through structured extension activities to support improved efficiency, quality and profitability across the Australian prune industry.