Once close trading partners, relations between China and Australia have deteriorated due to disputes over Chinese influence operations in the region, repression in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, and the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, since Anthony Albanese’s center-left government took office in May, efforts are underway to warm relations with Beijing.
Visits and discussions for a full resumption of trade
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong visited China in December for the first visit by a senior Canberra official in four years. This week, Trade Minister Don Farrell said he had met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao to discuss a possible “full resumption of trade.” Mr. Farrell said the meeting was an “important step in stabilizing relations between Australia and China.
First coal shipment in two years
According to data from shipping platform MarineTraffic, a coal shipment from Australia was en route to China on Thursday, the first in two years. A ship called Magic Eclipse, loaded with a type of coal mainly used for steel making and destined for the Chinese market, was reported anchored Thursday off the southern Chinese city of Zhanjiang.
Ongoing efforts to warm relations between China and Australia appear to be producing positive results, with the first coal shipment in two years en route to China. The discussions between Australian and Chinese ministers are a promising sign of a full resumption of trade between the two Pacific powers.
