9 July 2026

Grain Matters Edition 109 – July 2026

More than a conference: Build valuable connections at AGIC 2026

Some of the most valuable conversations at AGIC happen outside the conference sessions.

From networking breakfasts and the CBH AGIC Gala Dinner – featuring special guest Kitty Flanagan – to conversations between presentation sand the Welcome Reception, sponsored by the Port of Melbourne, AGIC brings together growers, traders, exporters, processors, researchers, government representatives and service providers from across Australia’s grain supply chain.

Alongside the conference program, AGIC provides opportunities to connect with peers across the industry. Conversations between sessions, over coffee and at networking events often lead to new ideas, stronger relationships and lasting professional connections.

Delegates will also hear from leading Australian and international speakers covering global markets, trade, policy, supply chain performance and the issues shaping the future of the grain industry.

Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network, strengthen business relationships or stay informed on the latest industry developments, AGIC Australia 2026 offers two days of insights, connections and collaboration.

If you haven’t secured your place, now is the time to join colleagues from across the industry.

Southeast Asia Feed Grain Market report to be launched at AGIC

A new Southeast Asia Feed Grain Market report, prepared by GTA and funded under the DFAT Southeast Asia Free Trade Agreements Modernisation Grant Program, will be launched at AGIC 2026, providing an analysis of long-term feed grain demand and market access opportunities to 2040.

The report focuses on Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, where rising populations, expanding middle classes and changing diets are driving strong growth in demand for meat, dairy, eggs and seafood, and therefore feed grains.

While domestic production, particularly corn, is expected to grow, it is unlikely to keep pace with demand, increasing reliance on imports across the region.

For Australian exporters, the report highlights opportunities for wheat, barley and sorghum, supported by established trade relationships and existing free trade agreements. It also identifies ongoing constraints, including non-tariff measures, variable regulations and domestic support policies.

The report provides forward-looking modelling to 2040, outlining supply and demand gaps and implications for Australia’s competitiveness in key Southeast Asian markets.

The Southeast Asia Feed Grain Market report will be presented by GTA at AGIC, with more details, including how to access the full report, to follow.

Honouring Gerard McMullen's contribution to the grain industry at NWPGP 2026

The 53rd Australian Grain Storage & Protection Conference brought together industry leaders, researchers, regulators and supply chain participants in Melbourne on 17–18 June to discuss emerging challenges in grain protection, storage and market access.

The conference marked the final event chaired by Gerard McMullen, who is stepping down after 10 years as Chair of the National Working Party on Grain Protection (NWPGP). Gerard was presented with a commemorative trophy in recognition of his leadership of the NWPGP and his longstanding commitment to grain quality assurance, stewardship and market access. The presentation also acknowledged Gerard’s forthcoming retirement from the grain industry, bringing to a close a long and respected career dedicated to strengthening the integrity and reputation of Australia’s grain supply chain.

More than 35 speakers presented across the two-day program, covering Australia’s chemical review, revised workplace exposure limits for grain fumigants, export pre-shipment quarantine treatments, insect resistance management, and advances in grain protection research and technology.

Discussions reinforced the importance of integrated pest management, hygiene and responsible chemical stewardship in maintaining grain quality and protecting domestic and international market access. Live polling also highlighted increasing insect pressure across the industry and strong support for alternative fumigants where appropriate information is available.

IGTC discussions in Brussels highlight EU regulatory direction and implications for grain trade

Shifts in European Union regulatory settings, including changes to pesticide residue rules and the growing use of non-tariff measures, are creating new challenges for global grain trade. Recent IGTC discussions in Brussels and London explored these developments in detail and what they mean for Australian grain exporters navigating multiple market requirements. Read more

GTA promotes Australian canola in China

GTA Director Simon Tickner represented GTA at the 17th China International Cereals and Oils Conference (CCOC17), held in Shanghai on 1–2 July.

Convened by the China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA), the conference provided an important opportunity to engage directly with Chinese industry representatives as efforts continue to re-enter the Chinese market with Australian canola. CFNA is a counterpart association to GTA in China and will also participate in the AGIC International Delegate Program during AGIC Week 2026.

Simon presented on Australian canola, covering supply and demand outlooks, the grain industry’s quality assurance systems under GTA’s Code of Practice, and the quality and benefits of Australian canola. Drawing on his experience as a grain producer near Horsham, he also shared practical insights into Australian farming, providing delegates with a firsthand perspective on Australian grain production.

These engagements help reinforce confidence in Australian grain, strengthen relationships with key trading partners and support long-term market opportunities for GTA Members.

GTA strengthens technical engagement with China on grain trade and market access

Grain Trade Australia continues to strengthen its technical engagement with China’s grain and oilseed sector through ongoing collaboration with industry and research partners.

GTA Trade and Market Access Consultant, Rosemary Richards, has recently been recognised with a 2025 Contribution Award certificate from the Journal of Science and Technology of Cereals, Oils and Foods for her work supporting international dialogue on grain trade and technical market access issues.

The recognition reflects broader engagement between Australian and Chinese stakeholders on areas such as grain quality systems, regulatory alignment and market access requirements.

For GTA Members, this engagement is important in supporting a clearer understanding of technical standards and regulatory expectations in one of Australia’s most significant export markets. It also helps ensure Australian grain industry perspectives are represented in discussions that influence trade conditions and compliance requirements.

Ongoing collaboration with Chinese research and technical bodies supports improved transparency and communication around evolving standards, particularly in areas such as quality assurance and food safety systems.

GTA will continue to engage with key partners in China and across the region to support science-based approaches to regulation and to help maintain practical trade pathways for Australian grain exporters.

News in Brief

A recap of the release since June’s edition of Grain Matters

Reminder of Grain Transport and Contamination Prevention – Member Update No. 13 of 2026
Australian grain industry gathers in Melbourne for the Grain Storage & Protection Conference – GTA Media Release
GTA / NWPGP Submission – Potential regulatory options for agricultural emissions inhibitor products in Australia – GTA Submission

Stay up to Date

Visit the News section of the GTA website for the latest updates on GTA activity, submissions, and industry developments.

GTA Training & Development

GTA Semester 2 workshops support practical capability across the grain supply chain

GTA has released its Semester 2 workshop program, offering industry-led training across commercial, compliance and operational areas of the grain sector. The full schedule is available to download via the GTA website.

Delivered by experienced practitioners, each workshop is designed to provide practical, applied knowledge that you can use immediately in your role. Sessions are available both online and in-person across multiple locations, allowing participants to select the most suitable format.

GTA Members also receive discounted pricing across the full program.

July’s workshop

Advisory & Compliance Day – 28 July I Melbourne & Zoom I Learn more & register

Designed for AFSL holders, brokers and advisors, the event will provide practical insights into compliance, risk management and emerging issues affecting the grain industry. Topics include compliance 2026 developments, disputes trends, educational requirements and AI use and more.

August’s workshops

6 August I Understanding Grain Markets I Zoom I Learn more

12-13 August I Grain Trading Standards I Toowoomba I Learn more

13 August I Navigating Trade Contracts Risk I Zoom I Learn more

19 August I Trade Rules & Contracts I Melbourne I Learn more

19-20 August I Grain Trading Standards I Dubbo I Learn more

26-27 August I Grain Trading for Non-Traders I Zoom I Learn more

26-27 August I Grain Trading Standards I Horsham I Learn more

GTA's Events

Young Professionals connect with industry leaders at the Young Professionals Event

Early-career professionals from across the Australian grain industry will come together in Melbourne this July for the Young Professionals Event, hosted by Grain Trade Australia as part of the Five Under 30 program.

Designed for participants aged 30 and under, the event provides an informal opportunity to connect with senior industry leaders, including CEOs, Chairs and senior managers from across the sector. It aims to support stronger relationships between emerging talent and established decision-makers in the grain supply chain.

Sponsored by GrainGrowers, the event continues to play a role in strengthening professional networks and supporting the next generation of industry capability.

Tuesday, 28 July, 5.30–7.30pm
KINGPIN, Crown Entertainment Complex, Melbourne

This is a free event, with RSVPs essential. Please use the registration code provided to secure your place.

Connect with the GTA Board and fellow GTA Members in Adelaide

GTA Members are invited to join the GTA Board and Team for an evening of networking and industry connection in Adelaide on Monday, 24 August.

Whether you’re looking to reconnect with industry colleagues, meet new contacts or speak with the GTA Board and Team, this informal gathering provides an opportunity to strengthen your professional network and connect with fellow Members in a relaxed setting.

Event details

Date: Monday, 24 August
Time: 5.30pm – 7.30pm
Location: Proof Bar, 9a Anster Street, Adelaide, SA

Registration is essential. We look forward to welcoming you to an enjoyable evening of conversation and industry connection.

Celebrating 35 years of Grain Trade Australia

This October, GTA will celebrate 35 years of supporting Australia’s grain industry with a Gala Dinner in Sydney, bringing together Members, industry leaders and long-standing supporters to mark this significant milestone.

The evening will recognise the collective contribution of Members, committees, volunteers and industry partners who have helped shape GTA into the trusted voice of Australia’s grain trade. It will also provide an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, reflect on the industry’s achievements and celebrate the relationships that continue to strengthen the grain supply chain.