The resumption of local lobster exports to China could be almost three months away according to Premier Peter Malinauskas.


Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced several weeks ago that tariffs would be lifted and Member for MacKillop Nick McBride quizzed the Premier in the House of Assembly last week about a resumption date.


In reply, Premier Malinauskas said arrangements were being put in place in advance of the Chinese New Year celebrations.


They begin on January 29 to mark the Year of the Snake.


“The advice that we have received is that that timeline will be facilitated so as to maximise the exposure and the opportunity so that lobster fishers in both the southern and northern zones get access to the Chinese market at that critical time of the year,” the Premier said.


He visited Robe in early October and took part in the annual Blessing of The Fleet, visited a lobster exporter and rode in a professional fisher’s vessel.


“Can I take this opportunity to commend the Federal Government for their mature and sophisticated approach in terms of engagement with the People’s Republic of China,” Premier Malinauskas said.


“They have done it in a way that is uncompromising in respect of Australian values but consistent with our economic interests and that of working people in our state.


“Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Trade Minister Don Farrell have, I think, had a very considered and deliberate approach in terms of engagement with China that has been to the benefit of South Australia quite substantially, obviously with wine and also in respect of rock lobster.


“It was critical the Federal Government navigate a path that did not compromise critical Australian values, that stood strong on a range of different positions that are of concern to us as a nation, but that also sought to engage.”