Meat deal means jobs, trade
THE region’s agriculture sectors will boom as increased trade pathways open up from a landmark agreement between Australia and China.
The Joint Statement on Enhancing Inspection and Quarantine Cooperation, signed in Canberra on Friday, will create jobs and potentially deliver more than $400 million into the nation’s meat industry.
There are currently 47 meat processors and 23 cold stores which can export meat to China, but approval had been given to only 11 to export chilled meat.
The agreement will approve an additional 15 frozen meat establishments and process approvals for chilled meat export for other processors that meet standards.
The Darling Downs has four processors with access to China via Wellcamp airport including Oakey Beef Export.
General manager Pat Gleeson said the agreement meant more jobs and opportunities for the Darling Downs.
“We will now be taking a strategic approach in ensuring our growth is aligned with this new development,” he said.
“This is a great opportunity for our immediate business and will secure jobs for locals on the Darling Downs but it is also a great opportunity for regional producers.”
Groom MP John McVeigh said the agreement was a “fantastic opportunity” for the region.
“One of the key components of this is chilled beef which Oakey Beef is focused on exporting through the Wellcamp airport directly into Asia,” he said.
“China is already Australia’s largest sheep meat market, worth $240m in 2016, and is our fourth largest beef market worth $670m in the same year.
“Southern Queensland has the potential to continue to grow offerings in both these sectors and provide China with quality, green, high-end produce.”
The clean, high-end product message will form a major aspect of the Food Leaders Australia joint trade delegation to Hong Kong later this year with Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise.
FLA CEO Dr Ben Lyons said market access was a core strength of the Darling Downs region, and removing trade barriers with chilled beef would boost the local industry.