Rigo’s Message: Stop Exporting Fig Varieties to Fuel Australian Scams

Rigo   •   09 Jul 2025   •   252

Something troubling is happening in the fig world, and it’s time we talk about it. Fig material is being exported from the United States to Australia, and while I can’t say with 100% certainty that it's illegal, it certainly raises red flags. If it’s not illegal, then it’s at the very least unethical—and it’s hurting people. Australian collectors, many of whom are just starting out, are being pulled into a dishonest loop that benefits the few while draining the pockets of many.

The reality is that fig varieties commonly available in the U.S. for $10 or $40 are being flipped in Australia for $100 to over $200. It’s insane. Collectors in Australia are being taken advantage of, plain and simple. What should be an enjoyable, inclusive hobby is becoming a money grab for people looking to profit off hype and inexperience. These sellers act as if they’re offering something made of silver, when really they’re passing off varieties at ridiculous markups.

I want to be very clear here: I, Rigo, do not support this behavior. It is deeply disappointing to see what’s happening. I sincerely hope that people like James and Rory, to name just a couple, don’t fall into this trap—or worse, become comfortable with this scammy approach. We should all be holding ourselves to higher standards. This isn’t about personal gain. It’s about respecting the community and keeping the hobby open to everyone who loves figs, not just those who can afford inflated nonsense.

 

And to those who are providing fig material from the U.S. to these sellers in Australia—take this as a warning. If I find out who you are (and believe me, I have a few names in mind already), I will put those names out there. I don’t care what business you run or who you are. If you’re contributing to this kind of abuse in the hobby, you’re part of the problem. You are helping others commit fraud by inflating prices and feeding the myth that these are rare, special finds. Like selling on auction sites that are dedicated to inflate prices on hyped varieties isn't enough here in America, you have to go and mess up another country.

Let’s not forget: exporting fig material without proper clearance may be illegal. You could face not just fines but the loss of your collection entirely. It’s not worth it. Don’t be the one responsible for bringing this kind of shame and heat down on yourself or the community. The fig hobby is built on trust, and violating international plant import/export rules destroys that foundation. Just because you can ship something doesn’t mean you should.

This hobby can be fun, it can be honest, and it can be full of great connections. But only if we protect it. I encourage everyone—whether you're tempted to export to make a quick buck or to sell overpriced varieties in Australia—to stop and really think about what you're doing. We should be sharing and growing the hobby, not exploiting it. Help people build collections the right way, not with manipulation, hype, and backdoor dealings.

There will be more to say in future posts about people trying to name every fig they find just to attach their name or business to something. But for now, this message is clear: keep it honest, keep it respectful, and stop feeding this madness.

Let’s do better—for each other, and for the future of fig collecting.