Comments attributable to National Farmers’ Federation Chief Executive, Tony Mahar
We welcome the announcement from Ministers Penny Wong and Don Farrell on the expedited review of duties on Australian barley.
China is an important market for Australian farmers, taking about 60-70% of our barley exports.
The constructive approach the countries have taken to progress this issue is in the longer-term interests of all parties and Australian farmers.
This agreement highlights the value of the WTO process to encourage mechanisms for bilateral dispute resolution.
We anticipate this will mean Australian farmers will have access to the Chinese market sooner.
The NFF thanks the Australian Government for its efforts to finding a positive outcome for Australian farmers.
We also hope this development is another step forward in recalibrating our relationship with China and will mean progress will also advance on removing trade barriers for rock lobster and wine.
Stacey Davidson