Australian group starts assessing wheat export applications

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has begun the process of re-accrediting wheat exporters, as it publishes applications from some port terminal operators.

Under the Wheat Export Marketing Act 2008, wheat exporters who own or operate port terminals must convince the ACCC there is fair competition in accessing ports.

Once the ACCC is satisfied there is open competition, it is up to Wheat Export Australia to re-accredit the company.

There were concerns from some independent wheat exporters that port terminal operators give preference to their marketing businesses but no official complaints have been made.

ABB Grain and GrainCorp's applications have been published and the ACCC will soon start taking submissions on them.

This is the chance for independent exporters to have their about export arrangements, according to industry sources.