Lobster Diplomacy: Australia Reclaims Chinese Market

China will lift its four-year ban on Australian lobsters by the year's end, following improved diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the timeline after meeting Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Laos. The move is set to boost Australia's regional lobster industry before the Chinese New Year.

China is set to resume importing Australian lobster by the close of the year, marking a significant thaw in diplomatic relations after a four-year standoff. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the agreement, reached during discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the ASEAN meeting in Laos.

The reopening of the lobster trade, timed ahead of the Chinese New Year, is poised to benefit industries in Geraldton, South Australia, Tasmania, and other parts of regional Australia. Albanese remarked that those involved in the live lobster sector would greatly welcome this development.

Since late 2020, China had imposed unofficial bans and tariffs on various Australian goods following diplomatic tensions over an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19. Prior to the recent announcement, lobsters were the last product still affected by these restrictions.

(With inputs from agencies.)