STATEMENT ON AUSTRALIAN WINE EXPORTS

18 August 2020

Labor is deeply concerned about reports that China’s Ministry of Commerce has started an anti-dumping investigation into Australian wine.

Labor is deeply concerned about reports that China’s Ministry of Commerce has started an anti-dumping investigation into Australian wine.

Australian wine exports to China were worth $1.1 billion in the year to June 30, according to Wine Australia figures.
 
The Australian wine industry and Chinese consumers have long benefited from a productive and respectful mutual relationship.
 
Labor urges the Government to use all appropriate diplomatic channels to address these allegations during the upcoming investigation process to ensure China does not ultimately proceed to levy import duties on Australian wine.
 
In our relationship with China, as with any country, we must always assert our values and our interests – including transparency and sovereignty.
 
Labor is concerned that this latest trade threat follow China’s suspension of imports from red meat abattoirs in Queensland and NSW, and the imposition of 80 per cent tariffs on Australian barley exports to China.