Australian Trade Minister Predicts End to China's Ban on Live Lobster Imports

Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell announced on Wednesday that he expects China to lift its ban on live lobster imports soon, following the visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Australia. This development would mark a significant milestone in the Australian government's efforts to stabilize bilateral relations since taking office in 2022.

In 2020, China imposed a series of official and unofficial trade barriers on Australian products, including beef, barley, coal, wood, and wine. These restrictions, along with a ban on minister-to-minister communications, have cost Australian exporters approximately 20 billion Australian dollars ($13 billion) annually.

Why This Matters: The bilateral relations between Australia and China deteriorated significantly after the previous Australian government called for an independent investigation into the origins and China's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. This demand led to further strain and the imposition of additional trade barriers.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang's upcoming visit to Australia on Saturday will be the first by a Chinese premier in seven years. This visit is seen as a crucial step towards mending the strained relations between the two countries.

Minister Farrell expressed optimism that Premier Li's visit would lead to the removal of the final trade barrier on live lobsters. "I think there’s both the willingness on our part and the part of the Chinese government to remove all of the impediments in our relationship," Farrell told reporters.

The return of live lobsters to the Chinese market would be a significant boost for Australian exporters, who have faced substantial financial losses due to the trade barriers. The lifting of the ban would also signal a broader thaw in trade relations, potentially leading to the removal of other restrictions.

The Australian government's ambition to stabilize and improve bilateral relations with China has been a key focus since coming to power in 2022. The anticipated lifting of the lobster ban would be a major achievement in this ongoing effort.

Key Takeaways:

• China's ban on live lobster imports from Australia may soon be lifted.
• Trade barriers have cost Australian exporters $13 billion annually since 2020.
• Relations soured after Australia demanded a COVID-19 origins investigation.
• Chinese Premier Li Qiang's visit is the first in seven years.
• Lifting the ban would mark a milestone in stabilizing bilateral relations.