‘Positive signs’ for WA fishers as delayed lobsters clear China checks

Rock lobster fishers say business is returning to normal in China and there are “positive signs” for future trade as authorities in the Middle Kingdom confirm delayed shipments are starting to clear customs. The Seafood Trade Advisory Group said there had been some clearance delays in China on Friday and Saturday for some Australian lobster shipments as new inspection processes — understood to take up to 36 hours — were implemented. The delays, resulting in consignments of the lobsters being spoilt, triggered fears the $500 million-a-year WA industry could be the next victim of trade tensions between China and Australia. “The industry has been working closely with authorities to understand these new inspection processes,” the advisory group said. “We expect that the situation will become clearer now that normal business has resumed following the weekend. “There are positive signs today with the Chinese authorities undertaking additional testing over the weekend and confirmation that delayed consignments are starting to clear customs. “Australia’s lobster industry values the mutually beneficial trading relationship it has enjoyed with China for many decades. We are proud to send the best quality seafood for our friends in China to enjoy special occasions with their families. “We remain confident that this will continue, underpinned by the Australian rock lobster industry’s reputation as a global leader in quality, reliability and food safety.” WA’s 230 strong fleet had been directed to stop fishing while the industry investigated the implications of the prolonged testing. The STAG said some shipments had seen customs clearance delays as a result of an increased level of import inspections in China in the last several days. The Geraldton Fisherman's Co-Operative was one of the exporters that said it would stop its shipments. Live crayfish only survive for 24 hours tank-to-tank, raising fears exporters will not have enough time to get them to shops and restaurants before they are spoiled. A small STAG working group was formed to “resolve this issue quickly”. Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said he was aware of reports of customs clearance issues related to premium shellfish imports into China and was working closely with the industry. WA Fisheries Minister Peter Tinley said he was aware of “the situation”.