Australia, currently the fourth largest truffle-producing country in the world, is gaining a global reputation in culinary circles for producing some of the world’s best French black truffles, or Perigord truffles (Tuber melanosporum). In 2023, the country exported over 11 tonnes of truffles, valued at over $9 million.
Truffles are the fruiting bodies of a soil fungus that grow in association with the roots of hazelnut and oak trees. They are harvested with the assistance of specially trained dogs that can locate the truffles by scent in the top 30cm of the soil.
The AgriFutures Emerging Industries Program aims to grow the value and diversity of Australia’s rural economy by driving the growth or development of emerging, high-potential rural industries.
The Australian truffle industry has been identified as an industry with high growth potential. AgriFutures Australia is looking to invest in a large collaborative five-year program of research in Australian truffles.
The Australian Truffle Industry Association (ATIA) has a robust Strategic Plan (2021-2026) with well-defined research and development priorities to assist the growth and development of the industry over the next five years.
The Australian Truffle Strategic R&D Plan was developed through consultation with key industry stakeholders, including the chairs of the Australian Hemp Council and the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance, and through a broader industry workshop.
We are committed to working closely with all those involved in the industrial hemp industry, as well as the AgriFutures Emerging Industries Technical Advisory Group. The Group works to identify research priorities and make investments which will have the greatest impact on the industry.
If you’re interested in participating in or contributing to truffle research and events, or if you have any queries, please reach out to us at
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