Tokyo, July 2, 2026 - The Australian Table Grape Association Inc. (ATGA) today announced the conclusion of the 2026 export season to Japan. According to Japanese trade statistics, import volumes of Australian grapes have been significantly higher than the previous year since the early part of the season, boosted by nationwide in-store tasting events. This season's events expanded to 25 prefectures nationwide, more than four times the scope of last year's activities. ■2026 Season Sales Significantly Exceed Last Year The 2026 season marked the first full export season since the lifting of variety restrictions in 2025, making over 130 varieties of Australian grapes available for export to the Japanese market. Key achievements for the season include: ● Export volume significantly expanded from approximately 3,500 tons before variety restrictions were lifted to over 11,000 tons in 2026. ● According to Japanese trade statistics, import volumes of Australian grapes from February to April showed year-on-year increases of 30% to 85%, and Australia's market share continues to grow amidst ongoing competition with South American produce. ● Following the lifting of variety restrictions, over 130 varieties of Australian grapes were offered to the Japanese market throughout the full export season. ● Nationwide In-Store Promotions: A total of 144 tasting events were held across 20 retail chains and 113 stores in 25 prefectures, covering more than four times the area of 2025. ● Consumer Engagement: The number of in-store tastings reached 51,044, a 75% increase year-on-year. ● Sales on the day of promotional events totaled approximately 12.26 million yen, a 195% increase year-on-year. The median sales growth rate in participating stores was 137%. ■Strengthening Initiatives for the 2027 Season Based on the achievements of the 2026 season, ATGA plans to further expand exports to Japan for the 2027 season. Key initiatives include: ● A major distribution partner aims to increase imports