The Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) has expressed its satisfaction with China’s decision to reinstate export approvals for three Australian meat export processors. These approvals were previously suspended due to COVID-19 detections during the pandemic.
Patrick Hutchinson, CEO of AMIC, acknowledged the progress made in resolving some of the outstanding issues that had affected these plants, allowing them to re-enter the Chinese market. He noted that AMIC had been actively advocating for this resolution alongside the government and industry partners in China.
This development is seen as a significant step towards addressing the broader access challenges faced by Australian meat processors. Despite considerable efforts and compliance measures to meet Chinese requirements, several Australian meat plants remain suspended. Hutchinson emphasised AMIC’s ongoing commitment to advocating for the reinstatement of all remaining suspended plants as a top priority.
Furthermore, Hutchinson expressed optimism that this development would stabilise the trade of meat to China and create a pathway for new market access. He highlighted the potential benefits for Australian export meat processors who have been seeking entry into the Chinese market for several years. This breakthrough could pave the way for these processors to supply Chinese consumers with Australia’s high-quality, safe meat and meat products.
AMIC, as the sole peak industry body representing the post-farm gate meat industry in Australia, plays a crucial role in advocating for and supporting the interests of processors, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retail butchers, and exporters in the meat industry.