Global Competetiveness - RIRDC Completed Projects in 1999-2000 & Research in Progress as at June 2001

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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2000-2001 & Research in Progress as at June 2001
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To Global Competetiveness Completed Projects

4.1 Global Competetiveness - Research in Progress
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

New Market Opportunities for the Food Sector

DFT-1A Asia's Food and Agribusiness Revolution Continues: New Opportunities in a Resurgent Asia Ms Judith Laffan (02) 6261 2605 Dept of Foreign Affairs and Trade

ANU-50A Japan food market study Dr Ray Trewin (02) 6125 0134 Australian National University

Domestic Impediments to Industry Performance

AEC-2A Benchmarking technology on the Australian waterfront Dr Bob Hawkins (02) 6273 1222 Access Economics Pty Ltd

Trade Policy Reform

ABA-11A Export subsidy measures: important considerations for the WTO agricultural negotiations Mr Ivan Roberts (02) 6272 2239 ABARE

CIE-13A Preferential access, trade reform and bank debt for developing countries Dr Andrew Stoeckel (02) 6248 6699 Centre for International Economics

Markets for Agricultural Products

US-92A The potential impact on agricultural producers of responses to genetically modified products Dr Kate Owen (02) 9351 7368 The University of Sydney

Supply Chain Linkages

DAQ-263A Social and cultural barriers to developing trust within demand chains Mr Hayden Hodges (07) 3239 3350 Dept of Primary Industries (Qld)

UQ-89A Unlocking successful new rural industries: is supply chain management the key? Dr Ray Collins (07) 5460 1328 The University of Queensland

Policy and International Analysis

BLC-3A Efficient equity and credit financing for the rural sector: enhancing competitiveness Mr Bob Lim (02) 9955 0169 Bob Lim & Company Pty Ltd

Communications

UMO-27A Annual awards for excellence in agribusiness Dr Lawrie Dooley (03) 9903 2757 Monash University

Research in Progress

New Market Opportunities for the Food Sector

Project Title Asia's Food and Agribusiness Revolution Continues: New Opportunities in a Resurgent Asia (Subsistence to Supermarket II)

RIRDC Project No: DFT-1A

Start Date: 06/07/98

Finish Date: 15/12/00

Researcher: Mr Graeme Thomson

Organisation: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Trade Negotiations and Organisations Division
RG Casey Bldg
John McEwen Crescent
BARTON ACT 0221

Phone: (02) 6261-2545

Fax: (02) 6261-1858

Email: graeme.thomson@dfat.gov.au

Objectives · The principle purpose of the production and dissemination of the report will be to convey clear and useful information, analysis and guidance for Australian companies, agribusiness, farmers, exporters and investors, together with Australian policy-makers, about the continuing major changes underway in the pattern of Asian agrifood demand and supply and, in particular, about the agrifood supply opportunities in Asia over the coming decade or so, ways of better accessing Asian markets and problems to be overcome. The report will be a single-volume accessible resource and guide to the Asian agrifood markets, written in clear, straight-forward language and presented in a user-friendly layout. As a public good, the report will be sold at a moderte price (c$40) affordable for small and medium-sized businesses and primary producers.

Current Progress Four chapters of the SSII report have been written, with work underway on the remaining five chapters.
The Asian agrifood demand trends 2001-2010 modelling consultancy (undertaken jointly by team from Australian National University, Canberra, and International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, using IFPRI IMPACT demand-based model) was completed in February 2001, with key findings to be used in writing demand trends chapter of SSII report.
Principal analyst has completed draft profiles of 70 MNC agrifood companies, with another 30 to be done; and also completed c50 draft profiles of Australian-owned agrifood companies plus of Australian subsidiaries of agrifood MNCs.
Detailed comments have been provided to the various consultants on c300 of the approximately 500 Asian agrifood company profiles (from Japan, China/HK, Taiwan, ROK, India, Sri Lanka, and South-East Asia) for their completion; and work is continuing on comments on the remainder. The details provided in these profiles are being used to deduce patterns in Asian agribusiness and food processing, food retailing and food service, for several of the report chapters.

Project Title Japan food market study

RIRDC Project No: ANU-50A

Start Date: 01/03/01

Finish Date: 31/12/01

Researcher: Dr. Ray Trewin

Organisation: Australian National University
Australia-Japan Research Centre (AJRC)
Building 13
CANBERRA ACT 0200

Phone: (02) 6249 0134

Fax: (02) 6249 0767

Email: ray.trewin@anu.edu.au

Objectives · The deliverables are the preparation of the research papers by key Australian and Japanese Authors to be presented in Japan and Australia, analysing the impact of changes and reforms in Japan on its food processing sector, and links between domestic and foreign suppliers of food products through foreign investment into and out of the sector in Japan as well as the implications for Australia. These deliverables will be used to develop briefing materials for an industry seminar and study mission to Japan aimed at better decisions related to agribusiness trade and investment by Australian companies and government in respect of international agricultural and investment negotiations. These outcomes will assist the Australian food processing industry to expand its access to the Japanese market and its market share.

Current Progress The formal start to the project was delayed until the first milestone of meeting with stakeholders, and agreeing to a timetable and research report contents was achieved in April. Despite the delay, good progress has been made. Two students were employed and under supervision of senior staff obtained background research material and data which they drew on in draft papers on changes in the Japanese food processing industry, and trends in Japanese FDI and trade in food. Professor Godo visited in April during which he presented a paper on Japanese agricultural cooperatives to be finalised as a Pacific Economic Paper. Recent visits were made by Professor Itoh and his research assistant to discuss and refine their research on the Japanese processed food industry. A draft paper is being revised to assist with some market share analysis that has been undertaken. Professor Urata and his research assistant who will be visiting shortly are expected to deliver a paper on Japanese food-related FDI, including in the distribution network. A roundtable based around these papers will be held before redrafted papers are produced and presented at a workshop in August. These papers will be used as input for an industry study mission to Japan.

Domestic Impediments to Industry Performance

Project Title Benchmarking technology on the Australian waterfront

RIRDC Project No: AEC-2A

Start Date: 01/05/01

Finish Date: 30/11/01

Researcher: Dr Bob Hawkins

Organisation: Access Economics Pty Ltd
PO Box E347
KINGSTON ACT 2604

Phone: (02) 6273 1222

Fax: (02) 6273 1223

Email: bob.hawkins@accesseconomics.com.au

Objectives · Compare container-related technology and management systems within stevedoring and its immediate ship and shore-side performance interfaces in selected Australian and overseas ports, together with their relationship to overall stevedoring performance, as it relates to containerised agricultural exports. Comment on technological issues that may warrant further attention.

Current Progress The project commenced in May 2001 and has assembled all the background material for the research. A project reference group is being identified and the first meeting will be organised soon.

Trade Policy Reform

Project Title Export subsidy measures: important considerations for the WTO agricultural negotiations

RIRDC Project No: ABA-11A

Start Date: 01/04/00

Finish Date: 31/08/01

Researcher: Mr. Ivan Roberts

Organisation: Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE)
GPO Box 1563
CANBERRA ACT 2601

Phone: (02) 6272 2239

Fax: (02) 6272 2346

Email: iroberts@abare.gov.au

Objectives · Enhanced appreciation of policy makers, negotiators and industry representatives of the importance of reducing or limiting a range of export measures that distort markets for agricultural products. The deliverables of the project will be a research report detailing the export subsidy issues facing world agricultural trade negotiations, together with one or more Current Issues papers which communicate the key research findings in a manner which can be distributed widely to key policy makers, negotiators and industry representatives in Australia and overseas.

Current Progress Substantial progress on drafting the report have been made. A framework for assessing export measures has been developed, and the analysis and modelling activities are largely completed. Draft chapters on reform to date for export subsidies, export credits and the misuse of food aid are in advanced states, and good progress has been made on a chapter on the future reform of export subsidies. Another chapter is yet to be drafted. That chapter will develop advice on essential components for further reform, and to compare and contrast those with the proposals already submitted.
The analysis has provided the framework for modelling the effects of reforming export subsidies, and provides factual support for the reports key arguments. The modelling undertaken has established ABARE's ability to provide timely advice to negotiators on the implications of reforms to export subsidies.
A seminar held in late May discussed the main conclusions of the study thus far with key stakeholders. It provided an opportunity to discuss some of the more complex and sensitive policy issues and implications and provided useful ideas on how such material could be handled. With export measures to be addressed in the agricultural negotiations for the first time in late July, the seminar has provided timely information for Australian negotiators to use when developing their position papers.

Project Title Preferential access, trade reform and bank debt for developing countries

RIRDC Project No: CIE-13A

Start Date: 31/05/01

Finish Date: 31/08/02

Researcher: Dr. Andrew Stoeckel

Organisation: Centre for International Economics
Ian Potter House
Cnr Marcus Clarke & Edinburgh Avenue
CANBERRA ACT 2600

Phone: (02) 6248 6699

Fax: (02) 6247 7484

Email: astoeckel@intecon.com.au

Objectives · An appreciation of the potential dangers for Australian agricultural exports if preferential access is granted to developing countries. Encouragement for a non-discriminatory open world trading system for agriculture.
· The encouragement of global banks and banks in developing countries to take a strong interest in promoting world agricultural trade reform, which is in Australia's interest.

Current Progress The project commenced in May 2001 and has assembled all the background material for the research. A project steering committee has been identified and the first meeting has been organised.

Markets for Agricultural Products

Project Title The potential impact on agricultural producers of responses to genetically modified products

RIRDC Project No: US-92A

Start Date: 01/05/00

Finish Date: 31/07/02

Researcher: Dr. Kate Owen

Organisation: The University of Sydney
Department of Agricultural Economics
Faculty of Agriculture
SYDNEY NSW 2006

Phone: (02) 9351 7368

Fax: (02) 9351 4953

Email: k.owen@agec.usyd.edu.au

Objectives Outcomes include: · A detailed plan for research that has the aim of providing estimates of consumers' and wholesalers/retailers' likely demand response to genetically modified food and fibre products, and how this response may vary according to the benefits arising from GM and to different publicity scenarios (eg negative, positive).
· A survey of consumers and wholesalers/retailers' to:
§ Ascertain the strength of concern over GM products relative to other food, social and environmental concerns held by Australian consumers.
§ Determine how consumers and wholesalers/retailers expect government/industry to respond in the event of a problem arising in relation to GM products, and how the context of the incident may change this.

Current Progress Biotechnology developments in the production of food and fibre promise substantial benefits for Australia. However, continuing uncertainty over consumers' response to genetically modified foods both in Australia and overseas hinders strategic development in the production sector.
The key to reducing this uncertainty is improved understanding of the true level of consumer and retail/wholesale concern and their expected response to genetically modified products.
The research is divided into two stages. The first stage comprises a workshop of stakeholders and a survey to assess consumer concerns over the introduction of GM foods. The second stage employs discrete choice modelling to evaluate demand response to selected products. The data will be collected through a second survey of consumers and another of retailers/wholesalers.
Results from Stage 1 indicate that the level of concern over GM foods relative to other prevalent concerns in the community was minor. A similar result was found when specific applications of gene technology to food were rated against other food safety concerns.
However, higher levels of concern were apparent when specific problems in relation to GM foods were presented to respondents. In response to two problem scenarios (contamination and erroneous labelling) more than half of those with a positive or indifferent attitude to GM food indicated they would be concerned enough to call for something to be done and would be concerned for their family and themselves.
The type of product and modification influenced respondent acceptance of products. In all cases where there were traces of the modification, or no clear benefits, respondents were less inclined to purchase the product.
Across the sample there was low awareness of the specific bodies responsible for regulating the production and sale of GM foods. The burden of responsibility for regulation and for dealing with such problems rests with an undefined "Government" and, particularly, Departments of Health.
These results are preliminary to a full report that will encompass assessments of demand response and further examination of consumer and retail/wholesaler concerns. On present results, further research is required to determine how the type of food product and the nature of the modification affect demand response. In relation to consumer concerns, the low latent concern over genetic modification of foods, coupled with the strong response to GM incidents, highlights the need for producers and policy makers to consider carefully how they will distribute their resources between awareness campaigns and the task of identifying appropriate risk management and communication strategies.

Supply Chain Linkages

Project Title Social and cultural barriers to developing trust within demand chains

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-263A

Start Date: 01/09/99

Finish Date: 23/10/02

Researcher: Mr. Hayden Hodges

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)
GPO Box 46
BRISBANE QLD 4001

Phone: (07) 3239 3350

Email: hodgesh@prose.dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives · The project will provide a sound theoretical basis for new and developing chains to use in dealing with the complex social and cultural issues which must be overcome in building the trust necessary for successful development and operation of agribusiness based demand chains.

Current Progress This report was not received from the researcher by the publication deadline.

Project Title Unlocking successful new rural industries: is supply chain management the key?

RIRDC Project No: UQ-89A

Start Date: 01/09/99

Finish Date: 30/09/02

Researcher: Dr. Ray Collins

Organisation: The University of Queensland
School of Natural and Rural Systems Management
GATTON COLLEGE QLD 4345

Phone: (07) 5460 1328

Fax: (07) 5460 1324

Email: rcollins@uqg.uq.edu.au

Objectives · The objective of this proposed research is to study the interaction of success or failure in new rural industries in Australia with the adoption of SCM thinking, planning and execution. If a linkage with SCM principles can be shown to be associated with a new rural industry's prospects of success, it should then be possible to identify approaches that could improve new industry development processes in Australia.

Current Progress This project is now in its second year. Previously reviewed literature on new industry development in agriculture and supply chain management has been analysed and evaluated so as to identify a set of criteria that may be tested as indicators of success or failure in new industry development. Using these criteria, the large database of new industry development related projects funded by RIRDC and AFFA over the last ten years has been reduced to a set of approximately 10 cases for further detailed study. These cases span animal and crop industries, and extensive and intensive production systems. A pilot study of the Australian olive industry had previously been commenced. It was completed and its results were also used to inform the process of identifying suitable new industry development cases to study in detail.

Policy and Institutional Analysis

Project Title Efficient equity and credit financing for the rural sector: enhancing competitiveness

RIRDC Project No: BLC-3A

Start Date: 01/05/00

Finish Date: 30/09/01

Researcher: Mr. Bob Lim

Organisation: Bob Lim & Company Ltd
PO Box 305
MILSONS POINT NSW 1565

Phone: (02) 9955 0169

Fax: (02) 9955 2275

Email: boblimco@ozemail.com.au

Objectives The research project will provide: · An issues paper to facilitate discussion and issues to be considered at a major conference with the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA), bringing key stakeholders with invited papers from sector participants so that perceived problems of rural equity and credit financing in an era of increasingly wholesale financing can be discussed and solutions explored within Australia's rapidly deregulating financial sector framework,
· Organisations of a CEDA/NFF conference and guidance to speakers,
· A post-conference publication bringing together the invited papers with discussants' and editorial comments, including a distillation of options and future directions to enhance rural industry competitiveness.

Current Progress An Issues Paper was prepared and distributed to participants at a major conference held by the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) on 14 June 2001, to discuss the problems of rural equity and credit financing and the future directions in developing more efficient financing instruments. Obstacles to rural financing (including securitisation) and whether related to business structures, tax, securities or superannuation regulation were discussed. The Conference, which was cosponsored by RIRDC and the Agribusiness Association of Australia, attracted over 130 participants, including Senator the Hon. Judith Troeth (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry), and Mr Kelvin Thomson (Shadow Assistant Treasurer). A Conference Proceedings volume which will include policy options for future progress in improving rural access to equity and credit flows is to be made available in early August.

Communications

Project Title Annual awards for excellence in agribusiness

RIRDC Project No.: UMO-27A

Start Date: 01/07/00

Finish Date: 31/05/03

Researcher: Dr. Lawrie Dooley

Organisation: Monash University
Department of Marketing, Caulfield Campus
PO Box 197
CAULFIELD EAST VIC 3145

Phone: (03) 9903 2757

Fax: (03) 9903 1558

Email: lawrence.dooley@buseco.monash.edu.au

Objectives · Award sponsorship provides RIRDC with an opportunity to present their corporate image to the Agribusiness industry. By supporting this prestigious event, RIRDC is able to show its commitment to promoting excellence in the Australian Agribusiness industry.

Current Progress On the 1^st March 2001 a cocktail party was held at the American Club, Sydney to launch the Agribusiness Awards for Excellence 2001. Approximately 73 guests attended the cocktail party and the primary objective of the cocktail party was to build awareness of the awards and encourage those attending the cocktail party to support the awards.
The direct marketing campaign was conducted in March to approximately 4000 Agribusiness industries currently on the Agribusiness Awards data base.
During March/ April advertising appeared in media sponsors publications The Australian Farm Journal, The Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Journal, National Cooperative Update and Food Australia.
The Agribusiness Awards web site www.agribis.net was launched to coincide with the launch of the awards this site has summaries of previous winners and sponsors logos are displayed on each web page relating to their specific award.
In March/May telemarketing was conducted to various Agribusiness industries to encourage applications for the various award categories. Again this year we received a high number of high quality applications for each of the eight award categories.
On the 26^th June 2001 in conjunction with the IAMA World Food and Agribusiness Forum the Gala Dinner and awards presentation was held at the Hilton Hotel, Sydney. This year the Gala Dinner was attended by 500 guest from Australian and international agribusiness companies. The RIRDC corporate banner was displayed during the dinner and the RIRDC logo was featured during the multi-media presentation. The Managing Director of RIRDC, Mr Peter Core was given the opportunity to present the RIRDC- Agribusiness Value Adding Award in front of the 500 guests at the dinner and he was able to promote RIRDC’s commitment to the Australian Agribusiness industry and he outlined the achievements of this year’s Agribusiness Value Adding Award winner.
The Public Relations Department of Monash University issued a press release to all metropolitan and country newspapers, on the 27^th June 2001. The Agribusiness Awards web page also published summaries of the winners of the 2001 Agribusiness Awards for Excellence. The Media attending the Gala Dinner were sent a summary outlining the achievements of the eight award winners and photographs of the sponsors presenting their awards has been forwarded to media requesting this information.
Advertising and editorial for the winners of the Agribusiness Awards for Excellence 2001 will appear in The Land, Food Australia, Australian Farm Journal, AIAST August Journal and Coop Update Journal.

DFT-1A	Asia's Food and Agribusiness Revolution Continues: New Opportunities in a Resurgent Asia	Ms Judith Laffan	(02) 6261 2605	Dept of Foreign Affairs and Trade
ANU-50A	Japan food market study	Dr Ray Trewin	(02) 6125 0134	Australian National University

ABA-11A	Export subsidy measures: important considerations for the WTO agricultural negotiations	Mr Ivan Roberts	(02) 6272 2239	ABARE
CIE-13A	Preferential access, trade reform and bank debt for developing countries	Dr Andrew Stoeckel	(02) 6248 6699	Centre for International Economics

DAQ-263A	Social and cultural barriers to developing trust within demand chains	Mr Hayden Hodges	(07) 3239 3350	Dept of Primary Industries (Qld)
UQ-89A	Unlocking successful new rural industries: is supply chain management the key?	Dr Ray Collins	(07) 5460 1328	The University of Queensland

Project Title	Asia's Food and Agribusiness Revolution Continues: New Opportunities in a Resurgent Asia (Subsistence to Supermarket II)
RIRDC Project No:	DFT-1A
Start Date:	06/07/98
Finish Date:	15/12/00
Researcher:	Mr Graeme Thomson
Organisation:	Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Trade Negotiations and Organisations Division RG Casey Bldg John McEwen Crescent BARTON ACT 0221
Phone:	(02) 6261-2545
Fax:	(02) 6261-1858
Email:	graeme.thomson@dfat.gov.au
Objectives	· The principle purpose of the production and dissemination of the report will be to convey clear and useful information, analysis and guidance for Australian companies, agribusiness, farmers, exporters and investors, together with Australian policy-makers, about the continuing major changes underway in the pattern of Asian agrifood demand and supply and, in particular, about the agrifood supply opportunities in Asia over the coming decade or so, ways of better accessing Asian markets and problems to be overcome. The report will be a single-volume accessible resource and guide to the Asian agrifood markets, written in clear, straight-forward language and presented in a user-friendly layout. As a public good, the report will be sold at a moderte price (c$40) affordable for small and medium-sized businesses and primary producers.
Current Progress	Four chapters of the SSII report have been written, with work underway on the remaining five chapters. The Asian agrifood demand trends 2001-2010 modelling consultancy (undertaken jointly by team from Australian National University, Canberra, and International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, using IFPRI IMPACT demand-based model) was completed in February 2001, with key findings to be used in writing demand trends chapter of SSII report. Principal analyst has completed draft profiles of 70 MNC agrifood companies, with another 30 to be done; and also completed c50 draft profiles of Australian-owned agrifood companies plus of Australian subsidiaries of agrifood MNCs. Detailed comments have been provided to the various consultants on c300 of the approximately 500 Asian agrifood company profiles (from Japan, China/HK, Taiwan, ROK, India, Sri Lanka, and South-East Asia) for their completion; and work is continuing on comments on the remainder. The details provided in these profiles are being used to deduce patterns in Asian agribusiness and food processing, food retailing and food service, for several of the report chapters.

Project Title	Japan food market study
RIRDC Project No:	ANU-50A
Start Date:	01/03/01
Finish Date:	31/12/01
Researcher:	Dr. Ray Trewin
Organisation:	Australian National University Australia-Japan Research Centre (AJRC) Building 13 CANBERRA ACT 0200
Phone:	(02) 6249 0134
Fax:	(02) 6249 0767
Email:	ray.trewin@anu.edu.au
Objectives	· The deliverables are the preparation of the research papers by key Australian and Japanese Authors to be presented in Japan and Australia, analysing the impact of changes and reforms in Japan on its food processing sector, and links between domestic and foreign suppliers of food products through foreign investment into and out of the sector in Japan as well as the implications for Australia. These deliverables will be used to develop briefing materials for an industry seminar and study mission to Japan aimed at better decisions related to agribusiness trade and investment by Australian companies and government in respect of international agricultural and investment negotiations. These outcomes will assist the Australian food processing industry to expand its access to the Japanese market and its market share.
Current Progress	The formal start to the project was delayed until the first milestone of meeting with stakeholders, and agreeing to a timetable and research report contents was achieved in April. Despite the delay, good progress has been made. Two students were employed and under supervision of senior staff obtained background research material and data which they drew on in draft papers on changes in the Japanese food processing industry, and trends in Japanese FDI and trade in food. Professor Godo visited in April during which he presented a paper on Japanese agricultural cooperatives to be finalised as a Pacific Economic Paper. Recent visits were made by Professor Itoh and his research assistant to discuss and refine their research on the Japanese processed food industry. A draft paper is being revised to assist with some market share analysis that has been undertaken. Professor Urata and his research assistant who will be visiting shortly are expected to deliver a paper on Japanese food-related FDI, including in the distribution network. A roundtable based around these papers will be held before redrafted papers are produced and presented at a workshop in August. These papers will be used as input for an industry study mission to Japan.

Project Title	Benchmarking technology on the Australian waterfront
RIRDC Project No:	AEC-2A
Start Date:	01/05/01
Finish Date:	30/11/01
Researcher:	Dr Bob Hawkins
Organisation:	Access Economics Pty Ltd PO Box E347 KINGSTON ACT 2604
Phone:	(02) 6273 1222
Fax:	(02) 6273 1223
Email:	bob.hawkins@accesseconomics.com.au
Objectives	· Compare container-related technology and management systems within stevedoring and its immediate ship and shore-side performance interfaces in selected Australian and overseas ports, together with their relationship to overall stevedoring performance, as it relates to containerised agricultural exports. Comment on technological issues that may warrant further attention.
Current Progress	The project commenced in May 2001 and has assembled all the background material for the research. A project reference group is being identified and the first meeting will be organised soon.

Project Title	Export subsidy measures: important considerations for the WTO agricultural negotiations
RIRDC Project No:	ABA-11A
Start Date:	01/04/00
Finish Date:	31/08/01
Researcher:	Mr. Ivan Roberts
Organisation:	Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE) GPO Box 1563 CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone:	(02) 6272 2239
Fax:	(02) 6272 2346
Email:	iroberts@abare.gov.au
Objectives	· Enhanced appreciation of policy makers, negotiators and industry representatives of the importance of reducing or limiting a range of export measures that distort markets for agricultural products. The deliverables of the project will be a research report detailing the export subsidy issues facing world agricultural trade negotiations, together with one or more Current Issues papers which communicate the key research findings in a manner which can be distributed widely to key policy makers, negotiators and industry representatives in Australia and overseas.
Current Progress	Substantial progress on drafting the report have been made. A framework for assessing export measures has been developed, and the analysis and modelling activities are largely completed. Draft chapters on reform to date for export subsidies, export credits and the misuse of food aid are in advanced states, and good progress has been made on a chapter on the future reform of export subsidies. Another chapter is yet to be drafted. That chapter will develop advice on essential components for further reform, and to compare and contrast those with the proposals already submitted. The analysis has provided the framework for modelling the effects of reforming export subsidies, and provides factual support for the reports key arguments. The modelling undertaken has established ABARE's ability to provide timely advice to negotiators on the implications of reforms to export subsidies. A seminar held in late May discussed the main conclusions of the study thus far with key stakeholders. It provided an opportunity to discuss some of the more complex and sensitive policy issues and implications and provided useful ideas on how such material could be handled. With export measures to be addressed in the agricultural negotiations for the first time in late July, the seminar has provided timely information for Australian negotiators to use when developing their position papers.

Project Title	Preferential access, trade reform and bank debt for developing countries
RIRDC Project No:	CIE-13A
Start Date:	31/05/01
Finish Date:	31/08/02
Researcher:	Dr. Andrew Stoeckel
Organisation:	Centre for International Economics Ian Potter House Cnr Marcus Clarke & Edinburgh Avenue CANBERRA ACT 2600
Phone:	(02) 6248 6699
Fax:	(02) 6247 7484
Email:	astoeckel@intecon.com.au
Objectives	· An appreciation of the potential dangers for Australian agricultural exports if preferential access is granted to developing countries. Encouragement for a non-discriminatory open world trading system for agriculture. · The encouragement of global banks and banks in developing countries to take a strong interest in promoting world agricultural trade reform, which is in Australia's interest.
Current Progress	The project commenced in May 2001 and has assembled all the background material for the research. A project steering committee has been identified and the first meeting has been organised.

Project Title	The potential impact on agricultural producers of responses to genetically modified products
RIRDC Project No:	US-92A
Start Date:	01/05/00
Finish Date:	31/07/02
Researcher:	Dr. Kate Owen
Organisation:	The University of Sydney Department of Agricultural Economics Faculty of Agriculture SYDNEY NSW 2006
Phone:	(02) 9351 7368
Fax:	(02) 9351 4953
Email:	k.owen@agec.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	Outcomes include: · A detailed plan for research that has the aim of providing estimates of consumers' and wholesalers/retailers' likely demand response to genetically modified food and fibre products, and how this response may vary according to the benefits arising from GM and to different publicity scenarios (eg negative, positive). · A survey of consumers and wholesalers/retailers' to: § Ascertain the strength of concern over GM products relative to other food, social and environmental concerns held by Australian consumers. § Determine how consumers and wholesalers/retailers expect government/industry to respond in the event of a problem arising in relation to GM products, and how the context of the incident may change this.
Current Progress	Biotechnology developments in the production of food and fibre promise substantial benefits for Australia. However, continuing uncertainty over consumers' response to genetically modified foods both in Australia and overseas hinders strategic development in the production sector. The key to reducing this uncertainty is improved understanding of the true level of consumer and retail/wholesale concern and their expected response to genetically modified products. The research is divided into two stages. The first stage comprises a workshop of stakeholders and a survey to assess consumer concerns over the introduction of GM foods. The second stage employs discrete choice modelling to evaluate demand response to selected products. The data will be collected through a second survey of consumers and another of retailers/wholesalers. Results from Stage 1 indicate that the level of concern over GM foods relative to other prevalent concerns in the community was minor. A similar result was found when specific applications of gene technology to food were rated against other food safety concerns. However, higher levels of concern were apparent when specific problems in relation to GM foods were presented to respondents. In response to two problem scenarios (contamination and erroneous labelling) more than half of those with a positive or indifferent attitude to GM food indicated they would be concerned enough to call for something to be done and would be concerned for their family and themselves. The type of product and modification influenced respondent acceptance of products. In all cases where there were traces of the modification, or no clear benefits, respondents were less inclined to purchase the product. Across the sample there was low awareness of the specific bodies responsible for regulating the production and sale of GM foods. The burden of responsibility for regulation and for dealing with such problems rests with an undefined "Government" and, particularly, Departments of Health. These results are preliminary to a full report that will encompass assessments of demand response and further examination of consumer and retail/wholesaler concerns. On present results, further research is required to determine how the type of food product and the nature of the modification affect demand response. In relation to consumer concerns, the low latent concern over genetic modification of foods, coupled with the strong response to GM incidents, highlights the need for producers and policy makers to consider carefully how they will distribute their resources between awareness campaigns and the task of identifying appropriate risk management and communication strategies.

Project Title	Social and cultural barriers to developing trust within demand chains
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-263A
Start Date:	01/09/99
Finish Date:	23/10/02
Researcher:	Mr. Hayden Hodges
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Qld) GPO Box 46 BRISBANE QLD 4001
Phone:	(07) 3239 3350
Email:	hodgesh@prose.dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	· The project will provide a sound theoretical basis for new and developing chains to use in dealing with the complex social and cultural issues which must be overcome in building the trust necessary for successful development and operation of agribusiness based demand chains.
Current Progress	This report was not received from the researcher by the publication deadline.

Project Title	Unlocking successful new rural industries: is supply chain management the key?
RIRDC Project No:	UQ-89A
Start Date:	01/09/99
Finish Date:	30/09/02
Researcher:	Dr. Ray Collins
Organisation:	The University of Queensland School of Natural and Rural Systems Management GATTON COLLEGE QLD 4345
Phone:	(07) 5460 1328
Fax:	(07) 5460 1324
Email:	rcollins@uqg.uq.edu.au
Objectives	· The objective of this proposed research is to study the interaction of success or failure in new rural industries in Australia with the adoption of SCM thinking, planning and execution. If a linkage with SCM principles can be shown to be associated with a new rural industry's prospects of success, it should then be possible to identify approaches that could improve new industry development processes in Australia.
Current Progress	This project is now in its second year. Previously reviewed literature on new industry development in agriculture and supply chain management has been analysed and evaluated so as to identify a set of criteria that may be tested as indicators of success or failure in new industry development. Using these criteria, the large database of new industry development related projects funded by RIRDC and AFFA over the last ten years has been reduced to a set of approximately 10 cases for further detailed study. These cases span animal and crop industries, and extensive and intensive production systems. A pilot study of the Australian olive industry had previously been commenced. It was completed and its results were also used to inform the process of identifying suitable new industry development cases to study in detail.

Project Title	Efficient equity and credit financing for the rural sector: enhancing competitiveness
RIRDC Project No:	BLC-3A
Start Date:	01/05/00
Finish Date:	30/09/01
Researcher:	Mr. Bob Lim
Organisation:	Bob Lim & Company Ltd PO Box 305 MILSONS POINT NSW 1565
Phone:	(02) 9955 0169
Fax:	(02) 9955 2275
Email:	boblimco@ozemail.com.au
Objectives	The research project will provide: · An issues paper to facilitate discussion and issues to be considered at a major conference with the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA), bringing key stakeholders with invited papers from sector participants so that perceived problems of rural equity and credit financing in an era of increasingly wholesale financing can be discussed and solutions explored within Australia's rapidly deregulating financial sector framework, · Organisations of a CEDA/NFF conference and guidance to speakers, · A post-conference publication bringing together the invited papers with discussants' and editorial comments, including a distillation of options and future directions to enhance rural industry competitiveness.
Current Progress	An Issues Paper was prepared and distributed to participants at a major conference held by the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) on 14 June 2001, to discuss the problems of rural equity and credit financing and the future directions in developing more efficient financing instruments. Obstacles to rural financing (including securitisation) and whether related to business structures, tax, securities or superannuation regulation were discussed. The Conference, which was cosponsored by RIRDC and the Agribusiness Association of Australia, attracted over 130 participants, including Senator the Hon. Judith Troeth (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry), and Mr Kelvin Thomson (Shadow Assistant Treasurer). A Conference Proceedings volume which will include policy options for future progress in improving rural access to equity and credit flows is to be made available in early August.

Project Title	Annual awards for excellence in agribusiness
RIRDC Project No.:	UMO-27A
Start Date:	01/07/00
Finish Date:	31/05/03
Researcher:	Dr. Lawrie Dooley
Organisation:	Monash University Department of Marketing, Caulfield Campus PO Box 197 CAULFIELD EAST VIC 3145
Phone:	(03) 9903 2757
Fax:	(03) 9903 1558
Email:	lawrence.dooley@buseco.monash.edu.au
Objectives	· Award sponsorship provides RIRDC with an opportunity to present their corporate image to the Agribusiness industry. By supporting this prestigious event, RIRDC is able to show its commitment to promoting excellence in the Australian Agribusiness industry.
Current Progress	On the 1^st March 2001 a cocktail party was held at the American Club, Sydney to launch the Agribusiness Awards for Excellence 2001. Approximately 73 guests attended the cocktail party and the primary objective of the cocktail party was to build awareness of the awards and encourage those attending the cocktail party to support the awards. The direct marketing campaign was conducted in March to approximately 4000 Agribusiness industries currently on the Agribusiness Awards data base. During March/ April advertising appeared in media sponsors publications The Australian Farm Journal, The Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Journal, National Cooperative Update and Food Australia. The Agribusiness Awards web site www.agribis.net was launched to coincide with the launch of the awards this site has summaries of previous winners and sponsors logos are displayed on each web page relating to their specific award. In March/May telemarketing was conducted to various Agribusiness industries to encourage applications for the various award categories. Again this year we received a high number of high quality applications for each of the eight award categories. On the 26^th June 2001 in conjunction with the IAMA World Food and Agribusiness Forum the Gala Dinner and awards presentation was held at the Hilton Hotel, Sydney. This year the Gala Dinner was attended by 500 guest from Australian and international agribusiness companies. The RIRDC corporate banner was displayed during the dinner and the RIRDC logo was featured during the multi-media presentation. The Managing Director of RIRDC, Mr Peter Core was given the opportunity to present the RIRDC- Agribusiness Value Adding Award in front of the 500 guests at the dinner and he was able to promote RIRDC’s commitment to the Australian Agribusiness industry and he outlined the achievements of this year’s Agribusiness Value Adding Award winner. The Public Relations Department of Monash University issued a press release to all metropolitan and country newspapers, on the 27^th June 2001. The Agribusiness Awards web page also published summaries of the winners of the 2001 Agribusiness Awards for Excellence. The Media attending the Gala Dinner were sent a summary outlining the achievements of the eight award winners and photographs of the sponsors presenting their awards has been forwarded to media requesting this information. Advertising and editorial for the winners of the Agribusiness Awards for Excellence 2001 will appear in The Land, Food Australia, Australian Farm Journal, AIAST August Journal and Coop Update Journal.

Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation

Rural Industries
Research & Development Corporation