Agave industry gains momentum as growers explore potential of spiky succulent beyond spirits

Australia’s emerging agave industry is gaining momentum as growers, distillers and researchers explore the crop’s potential beyond tequila and mezcal production.

Featured in an ABC article on 23 May 2026  and a new episode of ABC TV’s Landline, Professor Rachel Burton highlights agave’s promise as a resilient, high-biomass crop suited to Australia’s changing climate.

Professor Burton believes the plant could play a significant role in sustainable biofuel production, including ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel. With increasing interest from grape growers seeking drought-tolerant alternatives, alongside expanding domestic demand for agave spirits, the industry is positioning itself as a multifunctional and sustainable future for Australian agriculture.