Market access for Australian grain and pulses depends on meeting China’s import requirements, including maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides. MRLs were a key focus during Grains Australia’s recent visit to China, which covered the Qingdao Pulses Congress and meetings with industry and government in Beijing.
The Qingdao Pulses Congress brought together traders, processors, importers and industry representatives from across China and major exporting countries, providing valuable opportunities to discuss market conditions, customer requirements and emerging trends in the pulse sector.
Discussions throughout the event reinforced the strong reputation of Australian grain and pulse exports and the importance of maintaining close relationships with customers and supply chain partners. Food safety and MRLs remain a major priority for customers in China.
Representing Grains Australia were General Manager – Trade and Market Access John Southwell and Senior Manager – Trade and Market Access Manager Peter Breguet, along with Grains Australia Pulse Council Chair Peter Wilson.
Mr Wilson represented Grains Australia on a lentil industry panel, where he shared insights on market developments and opportunities for Australian exporters.
As part of the event, Grains Australia hosted a breakfast event for Australian delegates attending the Qingdao Pulses Congress. The breakfast was well attended and provided an opportunity for participants to network, exchange market insights and discuss common opportunities and challenges in the Chinese market. The event also contributed to greater awareness and understanding of the role Grains Australia plays in supporting market access, trade advocacy and industry collaboration on behalf of the Australian grains industry.
Other highlights included participation in a meeting between the China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA) and the Australian Mungbean Association.
Following the Congress, John Southwell and Peter Breguet travelled to Beijing to meet with the Australian Embassy, China Feed Industry Association, China National Association of Grain Sectors, China Grain Trade Association, CropLife Asia and the Academy of NAFRA. Discussions focused on market access priorities, regulatory developments and opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Australian and Chinese industry.
A consistent theme across both the Qingdao Congress and the Beijing meetings was the importance of Australian exporters understanding and complying with China’s maximum residue limits and other import requirements to protect market access and maintain customer confidence.
Another consistent theme was strong interest in increasing imports of Australian pulses. Demand for Australian barley, sorghum, and canola also continues to strengthen, reflecting ongoing confidence in the quality and reliability of Australian grain supplies.
Together, the engagements in Qingdao and Beijing strengthened strategic relationships, enhanced understanding of evolving market expectations and advanced Grains Australia’s market access objectives in China.
