President of the National Farmers Federation (NFF), Brett Finlay has joined Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce on a trip to China to further strengthen Australia's ties with its largest trading partner.
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Mr Finlay and Mr Joyce are joined by other business and industry representatives on the week long trip, which began on Sunday, September 14, and will finish this Saturday.
Just over a decade ago, Australia's overall two-way trade with China totalled 3.2 billion, and now sits at $150 billion per year.
Mr Finlay said Australia's relationship with China has always been important to the agricultural sector.
“While we are still working through the details of what this will look like in the future, there's no doubt that our relationship is only going to grow stronger.
Mr Finlay said the trip is an opportunity to learn first hand about Chinese agricultural systems and supply chains.
“We also hope to leave behind some valuable insights about Australian agriculture and how we can help meet their growing demand for quality, safe and sustainable food and fibre.”
“Gaining a greater understanding of how our two nations can complement each other is key to ensuring that Australian policies are designed to make the most out of opportunities in Asia,” Mr Finlay said.
Australian agricultural trade with China has increased in recent years, but farmers still face tariffs of up to 25 per cent on beef into China, 12-15 per cent on lamb and sheep meat and 10-15 per cent on dairy produce.
Mr Finlay said this is where counterparts like New Zealand have the competitive edge.
“Achieving strong trade outcomes is crucial to our farmers future,” Mr Finlay said.