GrainGrowers welcomes the announcement from Acting Prime Minister Penny Wong and Trade Minister Don Farrell on a new process involving both China and Australia and an expedited review of duties on Australian barley.
China has agreed to conduct an expedited review of barley duties, which will take three months with an option for a fourth month to conduct and implement the findings of the review.
Australia and China will jointly suspend the WTO review for three months, with a capacity for the suspension to be extended for a fourth month, allowing Australia the option to resume the WTO process if duties are not removed.
GrainGrowers has welcomed the decision and said progressing with the issue was in the longer-term interests of both parties.
GrainGrowers Chair Rhys Turton said China had been a key market for Australian grain, accounting for some 60-70% of Australia’s barley exports, and a resolution was in the best interests of both countries.
“This is a step in the right direction for trade between our two countries and highlights the value of the WTO process to encourage mechanisms for bilateral dispute resolution.”
“It is heartening to see a resolution of constructive dialogue between the two governments, and we are hopeful that this process will result in a positive outcome for Australian growers.”
If the duties are not removed at the end of the new process, the WTO process will resume.
“We thank Minister Wong and Minster Farrell for their efforts in securing the review and, as growers, are hoping that our strong relationship with China can be resumed quickly,” Mr Turton said.
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Media Contact
Chris Rowley
Email: chris.rowley@graingrowers.com.au