Removal of Duties Boosts Australian Barley Exporters
In a joint media release, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, and Senator the Hon Murray Watt, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and Minister for Emergency Management, announced that China will remove the 80.5 percent anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Australian barley.
Calm and Consistent Approach Yields Positive Outcome
The Australian Government welcomes this development, as it provides an opportunity for barley exporters to re-enter the Chinese market, benefiting both Australian producers and Chinese consumers.
This move affirms the calm and consistent approach taken by the Albanese Government throughout the dispute resolution process.
Ending Blockade on Australian Barley Exports
Since May 2020, China’s duties on Australian barley have blocked exports worth approximately $916 million in 2018-19.
The removal of these duties is the result of collaborative efforts by the government and industry to find a resolution to the dispute.
Acknowledging Industry Support and Patience
The joint media release acknowledges and thanks the industry and affected businesses for their support and patience during the World Trade Organization (WTO) process.
In April of this year, Australia and China agreed on a pathway to temporarily suspend the WTO dispute while China conducted an expedited review of the measures.
Importance of WTO Dispute Mechanism
The successful resolution of the barley dispute highlights the significance of the WTO dispute mechanism in defending the interests of Australia’s world-class producers and farmers. As a result of this outcome, Australia will discontinue legal proceedings at the WTO regarding barley.
Pursuing a Positive Outcome for Australian Wine
While the focus shifts to the wine dispute, the Australian Government remains confident in achieving a positive outcome through continued pursuit at the WTO. The approach of cooperation with China where possible and firm disagreement when necessary, always with the national interest in mind, has been reiterated.
Seeking the Removal of All Trade Impediments
The Australian Government will continue to press for the removal of all trade impediments affecting Australian exports, with the best interests of both Australia and China in mind. The resolution of the Australian barley dispute sets a precedent for the ongoing efforts to facilitate smooth and fair trade relations between the two nations.
Sources: THX News, Minister for Foreign Affairs & Senator the Hon Penny Wong
