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First nectarines flown into ChinaSwan Hill growers are among the first Victorian nectarines exported to Shanghai markets under new trade protocols, Shadow Minister for Agriculture Peter Walsh has said. By Portal Admin - 6th December 2016 - Back to News The import protocols were finalised with the Chinese Government in May this year and were the first new industry opening for summerfruit in about two decades.
"This new access under the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) means Victorian farmers will have a healthy boost to their sales, and this benefit will flow through to local jobs and investment," Mr Walsh said.
"This direct access builds confidence in an industry battered by consistently low domestic farm gate prices."
The first Victorian grown nectarines to be sold at China’s Shanghai Huiz Han wholesale fruit market were from VF Siciliano & Sons, at Woorinen North, near Swan Hill.
Mr Walsh said the Andrews Labor Government continues to be silent on this industry milestone.
"Labor put union demands before the best interests of Victorian farmers even after ChAFTA was finalised," Mr Walsh said.
"The former Liberal-Nationals government worked closely with the Commonwealth to progress negotiations on this vital trade agreement.
"The Federal Coalition Government should be commended for helping our growers access the world’s second largest economy and improve our competitive position in a rapidly growing market."
From January 1, 2017, nectarines will have a reduced tariff of four per cent, down from 10 per cent, with the implementation of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA).
The tariff will be eliminated by 2019.
Media contact:
Emma Manser
0437 225 386
emma.manser@opposition.vic.gov.au
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: support@gippsland.com
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