Labor is deeply concerned about reports that China may be preparing to impose tariffs on Australian barley.

China is yet to finalise its decision, and the Government must use the coming days to resolve this matter to protect Australia’s valuable barley industry.

It is in the interests of both nations to have a productive trading relationship.

Australia and China have a rich history of trade and investment which has been extremely beneficial to both our nations.

The Government needs to show leadership on managing this important relationship at this difficult time.

Australia has a long record in promoting the liberalisation of trade in agriculture.

In the 1980s, the Hawke government convened the Cairns Group, a coalition of agricultural exporting countries which promotes free and fair trade in agriculture.

This is an important legacy that benefits consumers around the world as well as Australian farmers.