Tasmanian lobster back on China’s menu after export ban breakthrough

Tasmanian lobster fishers have welcomed the move to resume exporting to the lucrative Chinese market by the end of the year. Here’s what it’ll mean for Christmas seafood prices.

Bryce Way 3rd generation crayfisherman and of Aussie Lobster Hunters series fame at Margate wharf. Crayfisherman who say times have never been tougher for those trying to make a living out of fishing for crayfish. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Tasmanian Rock Lobster will be back on China’s menu after the country agreed to lift all restrictions on Australia’s live lobster trade before the end of the year.

Fishermen across the state will be able to resume exporting to the lucrative Chinese market following a productive meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the ASEAN summit in Laos on Thursday.

Hursey Seafoods owner Mark Hursey, whose family has fished the waters of Tasmania’s North-West, West, and South for three generations, welcomed the move, which he said would help keep the struggling industry afloat.

“It’s very exciting if this does go ahead. China has always been the big dollar attraction, and it’ll certainly be really good for everyone if we can export to them again,” Mr Hursey said.

“It’s particularly good news for Tasmanian fishermen because we have some of the best lobster in the world – and our lobster is more sought after there as well.”

Hursey Seafood's directors David Hudson (front) and Mark Hursey prepare for the start of the Tasmanian rock lobster season at Stanley

However, Mr Hursey said Tasmanians may have to stretch their pockets if they want their Christmas seafood hit.

“This will mean it goes up locals for sure,” he said.

“But fishermen really need the price to go up. They do to survive – the fuel’s gone up, the bait’s gone up. Without a rise, they’re not going to survive this, just really not.”

Commercial lobster fisherman Bryce Way said Tasmanians shouldn’t fret – Christmas Day seafood orders could sting a little less this year if consumers shop local.

“Sadly, while the fishermen don’t get to dictate the price – we are basically told what the price is, and we go with it – we’re still going to be selling fresh lobster much cheaper off the wharf than anywhere else,” Mr Way said.

“And all restaurants that are owned by fishermen as well. There are places all around Tasmania that are owned by fishermen who support themselves with their own fresh fish.

“So, the big thing is this Christmas is knowing where your fish are from. Don’t buy International, buy local.”

Originally published as Tasmanian lobster back on China’s menu after export ban breakthrough