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China, Australia sign avocado agreement at Shanghai expo amid warming ties

Australia’s avocado trade association and China’s trade body signed an agreement at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai on Wednesday

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An Australian exhibitor at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai. Photo: Ren Wei
Kandy Wongin Hong KongandMandy Zuoin Shanghai

Australia’s avocado trade association signed a memorandum of understanding with China’s trade body at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai on Wednesday, signifying an advancement for the superfood to obtain access to the Chinese market.

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The agreement between Avocados Australia and the China Chamber of Commerce of Import & Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce & Animal By-Products will seek to enhance cooperation and technological exchanges.

Avocados Australia chair Matthew Kleyn said Australia expected to enter into a more sophisticated agreement after “hopefully” Australian apples were allowed into the Chinese market.

“But we’re [at the expo in Shanghai] to communicate with the importers who came to approach us in Australia,” he added.

Amid the warming ties between both countries, Australian businesses have set up over 250 booths, including wine, lobster, avocado and healthcare products, at the China International Import Expo, which is viewed as an important window for international exporters to tap the vast Chinese market.
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“For the planting industry, we hope to have more cooperation and exchanges,” said Yu Lu, vice-president at China’s trade body, who noted China’s past experience in using its large market for the exchange of technology.

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visits the Australian stalls at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai in November 2023. Photo: EPA-EFE
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visits the Australian stalls at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai in November 2023. Photo: EPA-EFE
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