Australian lobster fishers still barred from $550M China market

Rock lobster fishers in Australia are facing the fourth consecutive year without access to their once lucrative Chinese market, due to ongoing trade restrictions imposed by Beijing.

Diplomatic tensions have eased since the Albanese government took office in 2022, resulting in the removal of punitive tariffs on Australian exports like wine, beef, and barley. However, the rock lobster industry is still excluded.

Kyriakos Toumazos from the South Australian Northern Zone Rock Lobster Fishermen’s Association revealed that efforts are being made to resume trade with China, while also exploring alternative markets in the US, Europe, Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

Despite facing financial challenges and increased costs, including high fuel prices, fishers remain hopeful for a potential market reopening in China following an upcoming visit by Treasurer Jim Chalmers.