Productive discussions with major grains and government organisations in China have reaffirmed the stable relationships between the Australian and Chinese grains industries.
Grains Australia was a key partner in a series of roundtable meetings in China with customers, industry and government, convened by the Australian Embassy in China and in collaboration with Grain Trade Australia and the Australian Oilseeds Federation.
China is a major grain trading partner for Australia, and the Australian industry is committed to ongoing technical support and relationship building to help maintain this important market on behalf of growers and industry.
Australia exports around 12 mmt of grain to China on average, worth AUD$5.26 billion.
The delegation welcomed the opportunity to meet with COFCO , which plays a leading role in China’s grain trade. Grains Australia values the stable trading relationship between China and Australia, and it was encouraging to hear COFCO’s confidence in ongoing demand for Australian grains, as well as their interest in continuing to work closely with the Australian grains industry. It was great to discuss the positive progress being made on trade protocols and canola trials.
Separately, the delegation also met with the China National Association of Grain Sector (CNAGS) and the China Grain Trade Association (CGTA). Discussions included strengthening cooperation beyond trade, including technical training and the latest developments in grain storage technology.
The delegation also held productive discussions with China’s National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, focusing on domestic production, China’s stock and strategic reserves position, how that informs imports and subsidies, and potential engagements for Australia’s export grains industry.
The engagement of the Australian Government has been important in maintaining commercial continuity and supporting a predictable environment for trade, and this is valued by the Australian grains industry.
Australia continues to be a key partner for China in wheat, barley, canola, sorghum and other grains. Grains Australia looks forward to continued and deeper cooperation with the Chinese industry in the future.