Australia ‘disappointed’ with China’s 55% beef tariffs, as US$667 million in trade at risk

Beef on display at a Beijing market in 2019. Photo: Reuters

Australia ’s government is “disappointed” with China’s decision to impose new beef import tariffs , with one industry group warning the move could damage trade worth over A$1 billion (US$667 million) between the two countries.
China announced it would impose additional 55 per cent tariffs on some beef imports from countries including Brazil , Australia and the United States that exceed a certain quantity for the next three years.

The country also said it would suspend part of a free-trade agreement with Australia covering beef.

“We are disappointed by this decision,” Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell said in a statement.

“We have made it clear to China that Australian beef is not a risk to their beef sector, and that we expect our status as a valued free trade agreement partner to be respected.”

“Our beef is world-class and high in demand, and we will continue to advocate for and support our beef industry.”

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