May 13, 2020

China stops importing beef from four Australian companies

The import suspension comes as a dispute over the COVID-19 pandemic among both countries has resulted in issues concerning key agricultural commodities, reported Reuters.

Simon Birmingham, Australia's Trade Minister said the companies suspended from export to China are Kilcoy Pastoral Company, JBS's Beef City and Dinmore plants, and the Northern Cooperative Meat Company. The suspension was imposed because of labelling and health certificate issues.

Last month, the Australian government proposed an investigation into COVID-19's origins only a few days after China planned to impose an 80% tariff on barley imported from Australia.

Sam McNiven, Providore Global founder, an Australian beef producer that exports to China through a farm-to-table business model said Australia's politicians should stop their rhetoric with China regarding COVID-19 and support China as it is a major trade partner.

Cheng Jingye, China's ambassador to Australia said consumers in China would boycott products from Australia should the Australian government support an inquiry.

Zhao Lijian, a spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry said the country's customs agency discovered several examples of Australian companies violating requirements related to inspection and quarantine, and duly suspended imports from those companies.

Zhao said the related Australian departments have been notified to investigate the issue, adding that the suspension has no relation towards the COVID-19 dispute.

Back in 2017, China suspended imports of several Australian beef companies for labeling issues.

Patrick Hutchinson, Australian Meat Industry Council chief executive said the four companies account for 20% of Australia's beef exports to China.

-      Reuters