The lifting of trade restrictions by China signals a strong export revival for the Tasmanian rock lobster industry ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations.
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said the resumption of live lobster exports to Tasmania’s largest export market reaffirmed Tasmania’s international reputation for high-quality seafood.
“The recommencement of live lobster exports in advance of the Lunar New Year not only highlights the excellence of our seafood but also strengthens our economic ties with one of our largest trading partners,” Minister Abetz said.
“Tasmania’s rock lobster is renowned worldwide for its premium quality and exceptional taste.
“The return to the Chinese market will provide a significant boost to our local economy, supporting jobs and businesses across the State – a priority under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future,” he said.
January has traditionally been the biggest sale period for lobsters to China, largely due to demand from Lunar New Year celebrations with more than $6.5 million worth of Tasmanian rock lobster imported by China in January 2020, before the restrictions began.
Minister Abetz said that with January sales figures for Tasmanian lobster into China typically almost three times higher than any other month, the removal of restrictions at the end of last year was great timing for the local lobster industry.
“With such a strong opportunity back on the table we haven’t been wasting any time promoting the lobster sourced fresh from our pristine Tasmanian waters to eager buyers in China,” Minister Abetz said.
“Just last week Tasmania’s Trade Advocate to Greater China, Vivian Zhao, presented to an audience of seafood industry representatives on Tasmania’s rock lobster and seafood industry capability at a Return of Australian Live Rock Lobster event in Guangzhou.
“We are committed to supporting our seafood industry and ensuring its continued growth and success, and a key part of that is getting Tasmanian rock lobster back on plates in China.”
