February 24, 2005

China raises quality control concerns over Australian produce

China's ambassador to Australia has warned Australia's farming sector that quality control problems are damaging trade with the world's fastest growing economy.

With negotiations towards a free trade agreement between Australia and China as a backdrop, ambassador Fu Ying has addressed the Pastoralist and Graziers Association in Perth.

Australia is keen to secure a sound place in the Chinese marketplace of 1.3 billion people.

Madam Fu says China shares that enthusiasm but did not shy away from concerns about quality control of Australian exports such as meat production.

She says reports of Australian meat processing workers wearing dirty clothes damages the reputation of their product.

Outgoing Pastoralists and Graziers Association (PGA) president Barry Court acknowledged Madam Fu's concerns saying local producers were being made aware of the importance of raising standards.

Western Australian Agriculture Minister Kim Chance says he would be surprised if the reports referred to Western Australia.

He says if they were true he would be taking action.