No need to protect canneries: report December 20, 2013 - 5:20PM The Productivity Commission has debunked claims imported processed fruits are harming Australian canneries. Instead, a long-term decline in domestic demand, reduced export volumes, high labour costs and supermarkets pushing private label brand products were to blame for the problems facing the sector. The commission said there was no need for protection safeguards. Its findings coincide with a push for government assistance by struggling processor SPC Ardmona. The company, a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Amatil, wants $25 million from the federal government and a matching contribution from the Victorian state government. Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane will prepare a proposal over the holiday break that will be considered at federal cabinet's first meeting in 2014. A funding deal is supported by some within government, including MP Sharman Stone and the Nationals.