China has agreed to scrap its sanctions on Australian barley, ending a 3 yr rift.
The 80 per cent tariffs, first imposed in 2020 on the peak of diplomatic tensions between the 2 international locations and later topic to a prolonged World Trade Organisation problem, might be faraway from Saturday.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Trade Minister Don Farrell – each of whom have travelled to Beijing in current months to restore the connection – made the announcement on Friday afternoon.
“We welcome this outcome, which paves the way for our barley exporters to re-enter the Chinese market – benefiting Australian producers and Chinese consumers,” the pair mentioned in a joint assertion.
“The removal of duties is the result of work by government and industry to resolve this matter.”
The announcement is more likely to pave the way in which for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to lastly journey to China, however when requested whether or not he would now go to Beijing, he wouldn’t reply.
“I welcome the decision that has been made,” he mentioned at a press convention from Garma competition.
“I have said very plainly on China, that we will cooperate where we can and disagree where we must, but will engage in our national interest.
“This is a very positive decision.”
China’s choice got here after Australia in April agreed to droop its WTO problem, in return for Beijing agreeing to evaluation the tariffs inside the subsequent few months.
Australia stipulated it was ready to renew the problem if Beijing didn’t conform to scrap the tariffs.
The news is predicted to not solely be welcome news to Australian barley growers, however winemakers who’re hopeful China will quickly scrap its tariffs.
Senators Wong and Farrell mentioned they remained steadfast of their dedication to get wine tariffs repealed.
“In the meantime, we are continuing to pursue our wine dispute at the WTO, and remain confident in a positive outcome,” they mentioned.
“The Australian government’s approach has been to co-operate with China where we can, disagree where we must and engage in our national interest. The outcome on barley reflects that approach.
“We will continue to press for all trade impediments affecting Australian exports to be removed, which is in the interests of both Australia and China.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
