Industry Facts & Media
Industry facts and media information
This page provides a starting point for journalists, researchers, policymakers and others seeking reliable information about Tasmania's pharmaceutical poppy industry.
The size of the crop can change considerably from one season to another in response to global pharmaceutical demand. Production statistics are therefore shown with the season to which they relate.
2025–26 season
Industry figures
At a glance
PGT in brief
Poppy Growers Tasmania Inc is the representative organisation for Tasmania's licensed pharmaceutical poppy growers and represents approximately 85% of growers.
PGT represents growers in discussions with government, regulators, processors and other stakeholders.
PGT is not a processor or industry regulator.
Expandable information
Frequently requested information
Select a question to view the answer.
What are Tasmanian poppies grown for?
Tasmanian pharmaceutical poppies are grown for naturally occurring alkaloids that are used in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Is poppy growing legal in Tasmania?
Yes, when undertaken within Tasmania's regulated pharmaceutical poppy industry.
Commercial cultivation requires appropriate licensing and a contract with a licensed processing company.
Who regulates the industry?
The industry is regulated through the Tasmanian Government, including the Poppy Advisory and Control Board.
PGT represents growers but does not regulate them.
Can commercial poppy crops be eaten?
No.
Crude pharmaceutical poppy material can be poisonous and should never be consumed. Public access to commercial crops is restricted.
Who processes Tasmania's poppy crops?
The Tasmanian Government currently lists Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (Australia) and Extractas Bioscience, trading as Tasmanian Alkaloids, as licensed processors.
Why are poppies important to Tasmanian agriculture?
Poppies are a high-value rotational crop for farming businesses and form part of a broader supply chain involving contractors, agricultural suppliers, transport, processing and research.
Tasmania also occupies an internationally significant position in pharmaceutical poppy production.
Press contact
Media enquiries
Journalists seeking background information or comment from Poppy Growers Tasmania can contact:
Poppy Growers Tasmania IncWayne Johnston
Chief Executive
0417 316 208
[PGT domain email address]
When contacting PGT about a media enquiry, please include your organisation, the subject of the enquiry and your deadline.
Contact PGTExternal resources
Authoritative external information
For regulatory, licensing and public safety information, PGT recommends referring directly to the relevant Tasmanian Government resources.