New Zealand will welcome thousands of international avocado experts in 2023 when it hosts the 10th World Avocado Congress (WAC).

The five-day conference will gather the world’s leading avocado growers, researchers, marketers, innovators and investors to discuss growing practices, food safety and the ethical treatment of growers.

New Zealand is the world’s ninth largest avocado exporter and was up against Mexico, the largest avocado exporter in the world, and Kenya, the sixth largest exporter of avocados globally, in the competitive bid.

Tourism New Zealand global manager business events Lisa Gardiner welcomed the news.

“This is a huge boost for our local avocado industry and a chance to showcase New Zealand’s horticulture industry to thousands of influential international guests,” she said.

“It also provides the opportunity to access innovation, global knowledge and science to support the growth of the sector.”

Led by Tauranga-based NZ Avocado, the bidding process including six months of lobbying activity and even a video message from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern inviting voters to come and experience New Zealand first-hand.

NZ Avocado chief executive Jen Scoular said New Zealand’s team approach was integral to its win.

“Our amazing unspoiled landscapes, a reputation for openness, fairness and equality, and a commitment to care for its land and people, provides an ideal environment for the global avocado industry to share its values with consumers and media around the world,” she said.

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