Trade Minister Don Farrell’s Beijing mission to push for removal of harmful Chinese trade barriers
The Chinese government will be urged to remove all harmful trade barriers on Aussie products, including SA wine, in what will be the most crucial mission of Senator Farrell’s career so far.
SA News
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The Chinese government will be urged to remove all harmful trade barriers on Aussie products, including South Australian wine, as Trade Minister Don Farrell travels to Beijing on the most crucial mission of his career so far.
Senator Farrell will touch down in Beijing on Thursday to meet with Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao, in the latest diplomatic breakthrough between the two countries.
The Chinese government will be urged to put aside its grievances over the AUKUS security pact and focus on repairing the damaged trade relationship with Australia.
Last month China agreed to review its 80.5 per cent tariff on Australian barley in exchange for Australia suspending its formal complaint to the World Trade Organisation.
It’s hoped tariffs of up to 218 per cent on wine would be the next to tumble, restoring a lucrative market that has plummeted in value since the restrictions were imposed in 2020 as retaliation against former prime minister Scott Morrison’s call for an inquiry into the Chinese origins of Covid-19.
Australian alcohol exports to China plunged to just $37m last year, compared with $1.2bn in 2019.
“During my visit I will be advocating strongly for the full resumption of unimpeded Australian exports to China – for all sectors – to the benefit of both countries and in the interests of Australian exporters and producers,” Senator Farrell said ahead of his trip.
“In February, Minister Wang and I agreed to enhanced dialogue at all levels as a pathway towards the full resumption of trade.
“Since then, the Australian government is pleased there have been several positive trade developments, including the resumption of coal, cotton, and copper trade and China’s agreement to undertake an expedited review of duties on Australian barley.”
Senator Farrell’s trip to Beijing comes months after meeting virtually with Mr Wang in February and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s November 2022 meeting with President Xi Jinping in Bali.
It will be the most important trip of Senator Farrell’s resurgent career so far, as he attempts to secure a major win for Aussie farmers and winemakers.
China remains Australia’s biggest trading partner, with two-way trade worth $287bn in 2022.
SA Trade Minister Nick Champion will meet with the UK minister responsible for trade, Nigel Huddleston, to secure benefits associated with the Australia-UK free trade agreement coming into effect at the end of the month.
“To be one of the first jurisdictions in London advocating for our state following the announcement of the commencement date of the (free trade deal) positions South Australia exceptionally well to seize its opportunities,” Mr Champion said.
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