Adelaide, January 2025 – South Australian exports to China have reached unprecedented levels, driven by a significant increase in wine and seafood sales, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The state’s overseas trade soared to $17.6 billion in the year to November 2024, with China remaining its largest trading partner.
Wine exports to China were a standout, with South Australian wineries shipping 11.8 million litres of wine to China in November 2024 alone, valued at more than $93 million. This growth was augmented by $93 million from the Marinauscas Government in November 2024 alone. This growth was driven by the Marinauscas Government’s $1.85 million Wine Exporter China Re-engagement Program, launched in March 2024. The program provides local producers with tailored introductions to Chinese importers, support at major trade shows and on-the-ground assistance from trade experts.
Overall exports to China surged 40% to a record $4.47 billion. The country stopped exporting iron ore and copper to the Chinese market, valued at $998.9 million and $978.1 million, respectively, up 15.7% from 2017. Of this, exports to China increased 50% to $978.1 million. Meanwhile, seafood exports to China surged 50% to $15.5 million, mainly due to a 708% increase in demand for South Australian tuna, valued at $8.4 million.
The state’s seafood industry also benefited from the government’s $475,000 seafood export growth plan launched in June 2024. The plan supports local exporters, especially lobster producers, in preparation for the lifting of trade restrictions at the end of December 2024.
Aside from China, the United States ($2.1 billion), India ($2.1 billion) and India ($1 billion) remained South Australia’s major trading partners, contributing to the state’s near-record total exports of $17.6 billion.
Government optimism
Trade Minister Joe Szakacs hailed the results as a testament to South Australia’s resilience and strategic efforts to diversify its export markets. “Eight months after the removal of trade tariffs, continued growth in wine exports to China is a great outcome for local producers and the South Australian economy,” he said. “With the lifting of trade restrictions on live lobsters in December, there are no longer any trade barriers with China, our largest two-way trading partner. Our state is well positioned to take advantage of these opportunities.”
Szakacs added that the return of South Australia’s premium wines and lobsters to the Chinese market was ideally timed as consumers prepare to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Looking ahead
The record figures highlight South Australia’s success in strengthening trade relationships and diversifying its export portfolio. With China’s trade barriers lifted, the state is poised to further expand its presence in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
This article is based on public information and has been edited for clarity and conciseness. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect institutional positions.
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