- Wednesday, October 16, 2024
China's Ministry of Commerce has announced the removal of tariffs on Australian-imported barley, marking a positive step in the improving relationship between Beijing and Canberra.
In response to changes in the Chinese market, the ministry stated that anti-dumping and countervailing duties on barley imports from Australia are no longer necessary.
Previously, China had imposed tariffs of 80.5% on Australian barley in 2020, accusing Australian farmers of benefiting from government subsidies and engaging in dumping practices. These tariffs significantly impacted Australian barley exports to China, which were valued at approximately $1 billion annually prior to their implementation, according to analytics firm, IHS Markit.
The imposition of these tariffs followed a deterioration in bilateral ties after Australia's former prime minister, Scott Morrison, expressed support for an international investigation into the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic, much to the displeasure of Beijing.
Furthermore, China also imposed tariffs on Australian beef, wine, and rock lobsters, while temporarily suspending imports of coal and timber.
In response to the lifting of the barley tariffs, Canberra warmly welcomed the decision and announced its intention to withdraw the legal proceedings it had initiated with the World Trade Organization. Australia had voluntarily suspended its WTO dispute process in April to allow China to conduct an expedited review of the measures, leading to this recent development.
Since Anthony Albanese assumed the role of prime minister in May 2022, diplomatic relations between China and Australia have steadily improved. Earlier this year, China also resumed imports of coal and timber from Australia.
In its statement, Canberra expressed its expectation for a similar process to be followed to remove the duties on Australian wine while simultaneously pursuing resolution at the WTO.
Grace Zhu and Mike Cherney contributed to this report.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
Post a comment