Australian live rock lobsters are back on Chinese menus, with nearly two million kilograms exported since trade resumed in December.
Tasmanian fishermen have sent 190,000kg of lobster out of the state, while South Australia has contributed 450,000kg and Western Australia has shipped 1.1 million kilograms.
Michael Blake, Tasmanian manager of seafood exporter SALCO, said the industry is “extremely grateful” for the efforts to restore access to their biggest buyer.
“Our fishers and industry investors were extremely patient through this process which I have no doubt helped us return to our largest market faster than we would have without the cooperation,” he said.
“It’s extremely exciting to be once again talking to our long standing friends and trading partners within China and we are excited for the future trade opportunities this now provides.”
Before restrictions were introduced, China imported more than $6.5 million worth of Tasmanian rock lobster in January 2020 alone.
Live rock lobster exports were suspended as part of broader trade restrictions affecting several Australian products, including wine, coal and timber logs.
Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins welcomed the trade boost, calling it “well-deserved”.
“Lobsters are caught right around the country, meaning that the benefits are shared widely,” she said.
“I’m proud of what rock lobster fishers achieve and take great pride in representing their interests and the interests of Australian agricultural, fishery and forestry industries throughout Australia and in international markets.”
