THERE is a real risk that the Australian canola industry's multi-million export trade could be jeopardised by thoughtless growers using unapproved chemicals, especially in fighting insects in growing crops, according to ABB Grain executive manager group operations John Warda .

A warning has been issued to the State's canola growers of the ramifications of illegally using non-registered chemicals for combating insects by ABB Grain.

"After two drought years, good conditions on the east coast and in South Australia this year mean prospects for our state returning to the canola export market are good," Mr Warda said.

"During the past three seasons the reputation of Australian canola has been compromised in Japan by discovery of chemical residue breaches, sourced from Western Australia and SA.

"While ABB and other bulk handlers have been diligent in testing canola at receival and segregation stages (and usually picking up any residues) there is a risk a further breach could result in a boycott of Australian canola by Japan, the world's largest canola importer."

Mr Warda said this year ABB storage and handling would step up its testing of harvest receivals, with a delivery disclosure that must be signed, with more rigorous sampling, testing, segregation and traceability back to the grower for every load delivered.

"If a further breach occurs of chemicals being used that are not registered for use, or haven't got internationally recognised maximum residue limits, it could have devastating implications for our exports and growers," he said.

"It could be South Australian canola would be impossible to export - resulting in no end-users and, in a worst case scenario, no buyers."

Mr Warda said growers must ensure they used only chemicals approved and registered for application to canola. Certain products which can be applied to cereals and pulses are illegal for use on canola.

South Australia's key markets for canola are likely to be Pakistan, Bangladesh, Japan and possibly Europe. This year it is expected up to one million tonnes of canola nationally will be exported, with up to 250,000t from SA. Currently, canola values are about $600/t.