Australian cotton industry disappointed byapparent Chinese export changesStatement attributable to Adam Kay – CEO, Cotton Australia and Michael O’Rielley – Chair, Australian Cotton ShippersAssociationThe Australian cotton industry is working to understand apparent changes to export conditions for Australian cotton to the People’sRepublic of China.
It has become clear to our industry that the National Development Reform Commission in China has recently been discouraging theircountry’s spinning mills from using Australian cotton.
Our industry is working with the Australian Government, including the Trade and Agriculture m inisters’ offices, to investigate thesituation and fully understand what is going on.
The Australian cotton industry has earned a reputation as a reliable international supplier of cotton with fast shipping times to exportdestinations and reliable delivery. Our crop is in strong demand internationally and can attract a price premium due to its high quality.
excellent sustainability credentials, reliability and a proven track record in meeting manufacturer and consumer needs, including inChina.
Our industry’s relationship with China is of importance to us and is a relationship we have long valued and respected. To now learn ofthese changes for Australian cotton exports to China is disappointing, particularly after we have enjoyed such a mutually beneficialrelationship with the country over many years.
Despite these changes to our industry’s export conditions, we know Australian cotton will find a home in the international market. T heAustralian cotton industry has long enjoyed positive relationships with the many other countries we export to, and we look forward tocontinuing and developing those other relationships further.
The Australian cotton industry will continue having meaningful conversations with stakeholders to fully understand this situation, andwe will continue working with the Australian Government to respectfully and meaningfully engage wit h China to find a resolution.
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