Michael Crowley, Managing Director of Meat & Livestock Australia, has made a statement on China’s beef safeguard, slamming the decision and backing the Australian red meat industry as safe and reliable for foreign consumers.
“Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has expressed its disappointment on behalf of Australia’s red meat industry following the announcement by China’s Ministry of Commerce to implement a global safeguard measure on beef imports, including Australian beef,” Mr Crowley said in the statement.
“Australia has consistently engaged with China throughout their investigation process, making clear at every opportunity that our exports are not the cause of any alleged injury to China’s domestic beef sector.
“We have also reminded China of Australia’s position as a trusted free trade partner and hope that will continue to be respected.
“China remains and will continue to be an important market for Australian beef and this tariff will impact our customers within China significantly. “MLA’s China offices will liaise closely with our customers and importers in market as this measure is implemented.
“MLA plays a critical role in driving market access and marketing Australian red meat globally, including maintaining a strong presence in China to support trade relationships and promote Australian beef.
“Importantly, MLA will continue to work with industry and trade partners to actively promote Australian red meat in China, ensuring we remain well-positioned to capitalise on our strong reputation.
“While this safeguard measure will impact all major beef suppliers to China, not just Australia, we will continue to work closely with the Australian Government and industry partners including the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) to seek clarity on the measure and pursue the best possible outcome for Australian beef producers,” he said.
