May 28, 2005

Australian pork producers pleased with decision to regulate pork imports

A landmark decision by Australia has been made that would prevent foreign pork producers from gaining full access to Australian markets.

The Australian Pork Limited (APL) took action legal action against Biosecurity Australia for recommending that more pig imports be allowed into Australian markets, and the court has ruled in favour of Australian pork.

Pork producers across Australia are rejoicing as this establishes that the courts of Australia can supervise what the regulator does.

APL chairman Nigel Smith said that this will allow Australia to maintain its competitive advantage with the rest of the world, given the pristine animal health status there.

Currently, a substantial increase in the amount of imported pork flowing into the country has again forced the market price to below the cost of Australian production.

Duguld Walker from the NSW Farmers Association said subsidised Danish imports and feisty competition in markets in Australia, the US and Canada have caused imports to rise sharply from the 5,000 tonnes that was shipped there in February.