Teys Australia access to China reinstated

The South Australian Government has welcomed the Chinese Government’s decision to lift suspensions on the Naracoorte abattoir Teys Australia, along with two other Australian facilities.

Eased restrictions will enable the Teys Australia meat facility to recommence sending its products to China.

Meat exports were suspended from the Naracoorte abattoir in January last year, two years after similar restrictions were imposed on interstate abattoirs Australian Lamb Company and JBS.

Last week’s announcement is another step towards easing Chinese trade restrictions and follows an agreement between Australian and Chinese Governments to review tariffs on Australian wine.

It also follows China lifting restrictions on Australian hay imports in October.

In 2012, prior to the suspension of Teys’ export licence, South Australian beef exports to China were valued at $74.5 million. However, the most recent ABS data shows SA meat exports over the past 12 months fell to $10.7 million.

Premier Peter Malinauskas led a business delegation to China in mid-September, to further strengthen South Australia’s partnership with the important trading partner.

South Australian Minister for Trade and Investment Nick Champion said the announcement was positive news for Teys and for the State’s strengthening relationship with an important trade and economic partner.

“This multi-million-dollar industry is an important part of our State’s economy, and the easing of these restrictions will provide a welcome trading and jobs boost,” Minister Champion said.

“Progress at both State and Federal levels is steadily stabilising relations with China – and we will continue to advocate for eased restrictions, including on wine and lobster.”

Local independent MP Nick McBride also welcomed the news.

“The Teys meatworks employs hundreds of staff and is vitally important to the economic success of Naracoorte – and the broader region,” McBride said.

“It is my hope that lifting the ban will re-open the vital export market with China, leading to more processing at the plant, which in turn, will ultimately lead to more job opportunities at Teys.”