SOUTH Australia’s seafood and lobster industries are being supported to re-engage with the China market as soon as trade restrictions ease.
The state government announced a $475,000 package to deliver export and marketing support.
Since 2020, the Chinese government has not issued import permits for rock lobster despite more than $70m worth of the South Australian product imported in 2019.
South Australian rock lobster fishers are hopeful the remaining restrictions on lobster exports into China will ease following barley and wine.
The seafood export growth program will include support for the seafood exporters to attend major international trade events to meet with local buyers, bring key seafood importers to South Australia for visits, a marketing campaign for international audiences and access to trade advisers to assist with export capability building.
Minister for Primary Industries Clare Scriven said if the lobster bans were lifted soon, the state government wanted South Australian producers to be ready to re-engage straight away.
“Many businesses have struggled through the trade bans, but the work of the premier and I through visits to China and the steady work of the Commonwealth to stabilise the trade relationship, means that opportunities may soon be open again,” Ms Scriven said
“The work with China will be boosted by this package, as well as continuing efforts to diversify our markets”.
Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs said the state’s waters were home to some of the world’s most sought-after seafood including southern rock lobster, southern bluefin tuna, oysters and abalone.
“The seafood market across Asia has changed dramatically in the last four years,” Mr Szakacs said.
“This program is poised to help our exporters successfully navigate their journey into China and continue their push into other key markets.”
