The federal government grant supports the association’s work to grow the international market for Australian manuka honey.

Association advisory committee member and Blue Hills Honey owner Nicola Charles said the grant would be a great help in spreading the message about Australia’s manuka products.

“The grant will push, promote and market honey producers in Tasmania and Australia. It will push the manuka name, which Tasmanians have been doing since 1884,” Ms Charles said.

An article from an 1884 edition of The Examiner mentions “...the forest of big stringy gum, myrtle, or manuka” and “...the chance of a dry, stony manuka opening...”

“It’s a term that’s been around in Australia for a long time. Tasmanian producers are actively included in the process,” she said.

The association will develop a website and visit key markets to share production knowledge and promote the origins of manuka honey in Australia.

The grant is funded under the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, federal Agriculture minister David Littleproud.

“International markets are buzzing over manuka honey, creating real opportunities for our producers,” Mr Littleproud said.

“This funding will support the spread of Australian manuka honey to the medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and nutraceutical markets.”

Tasmanian Liberal Senator David Bushby said Australian manuka honey was the best in the world.

“This grant will allow the industry to evolve as well as promote its traditional honey in a jar,” Mr Bushby said.

“This is a fantastic announcement that will not only have a positive impact on jobs and the local economy, but also our environment.”

Funding comes from the $3.1 million Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation program, which was established to make the most of trade deals and market access gains the government has secured.