Major farming groups say yesterday's announcement that Australian barley exports could resume to China sooner than previously hoped is a major win for both Chinese consumers and local grain growers and exporters.
Federal Trade Minister Don Farrell and Foreign Minister Penny Wong yesterday announced a new process involving both countries, which could lead to the important market re-opening within months.
Grain Producers Australia Chair Barry Large said that while other exports markets had purchased Australian barley over the past two years, and trade for other important Australian grains such as wheat have continued with China, growers would welcome the return of the China market.
"We welcome this new process and look forward to a positive outcome," he said.