RV industry posts strong growth, manufacturing, and export figures in Australia

The long-term future of the caravanning and RV industry in Australia looks brighter than ever after the latest figures released from the Caravan Industry Association of Australia showed increases in units registered, local manufacturing, and exports in 2022. According to the figures, almost 50,000 RVs were registered to the market last year while the number of locally produced units reached 28,031, which represents a 17.1 per cent increase on 2021 and represents the highest figure since Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Imported RVs were recorded at 20,498 (8.36 per cent up on 2021), while Australian-made RVs exported achieved 9,568 units (an incredible 229.93 per cent increase on 2021), the CIAA says this shows the high regard in which Australian-made products are held around the world.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO, Stuart Lamont, said: “There is no surprise that Australians continue to invest in industry product, since caravanning and camping remains one of the best value and accessible holiday options, especially for families.

“Our industry through COVID was able to pivot and mobilise during challenging times, and now that labour and supply chain interruptions have minimised, we continue to see strong output particularly from local manufacturers.

“Australia is renowned for producing rugged product suited to our stunning yet unforgiving terrain. With the ability to provide for urban escapism and the new workplace shift towards remote connection, the industry remains well positioned for anticipated strong consumer demand into the future.”

While these figures are hugely encouraging, there is no time to get complacent according to Stuart and the CIAA. The body believes that the industry should now be examining the future of caravanning and working towards new innovations that will help create a low emission future.

While global uncertainties and rising inflation continue to dampen consumer confidence more broadly, the caravan and camping industry remains optimistic regarding the future despite the headwinds and looks forward to continuing to build on the AUS$27 billion worth of annual economic value to the Australian economy.

Stuart added: “These most recent figures only further fortify the recreational vehicle manufacturing sector’s position and importance as one of Australia’s largest remaining bastions of automotive manufacturing, a position by which we need to see continued support and partnership for in order to maintain,” said Stuart.

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