China Announces Review of Tariffs on Australian Wine Imports

BEIJING (Reuters) – The Chinese government confirmed on Thursday its decision to review the existing anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tariffs on wine imports from Australia. This review is seen as a step towards improving the bilateral relations between China and Australia. The review, announced by the Chinese Commerce Ministry, follows a recent agreement between the two countries to resolve a World Trade Organization dispute concerning the wine tariffs.

These tariffs, which were initially set to expire in 2026, will now undergo a reassessment. Shu Jueting, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, stated in a regular news conference in Beijing that the ministry would conduct the review “in accordance with the law” and ensure that the rights of all stakeholders are fully protected. Jueting emphasized that the review process would be objective, fair, and transparent, with decisions made after careful consideration of the claims and evidence presented by each interested party.

The ministry has also invited comments and inputs from relevant parties or stakeholders, who have been given a 20-day window to submit their responses in writing. The review comes in the wake of the 218% tariff imposed by China on most Australian wine imports in early 2021. This significant tax led to a substantial decline in the Australian wine trade with China, which had previously reached an annual value of up to $1.2 billion.