Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed strong support for the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) trade rules framework and criticized the economic sanctions imposed by China. During his speech at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai on November 5, the prime minister emphasized the importance of free trade and the role of government in creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. He highlighted the need for eliminating unnecessary trade barriers, fostering a level playing field, and promoting inclusive economic growth. Albanese also praised the WTO for its independent role in arbitrating trade disputes among member countries, stating that rules-based trade has facilitated the prosperity of both Australia and China.
Since 2022, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has imposed sanctions on $20 billion worth of Australian export products, although the tariffs have been reduced to $2 billion after negotiations. However, trade restrictions on Australian commodities such as wine and lobster remain in place. The Australian government is currently engaged in dialogue with China to resolve the remaining tariffs in the coming months.
In his address at the Shanghai Expo, Chinese Premier Li Qiang condemned unilateralism and protectionism in international trade. He reaffirmed the CCP’s commitment to upholding the multilateral trading system established by the WTO. During a dinner with Albanese, Premier Li also underlined the importance of the bilateral relationship between Australia and China.
While the Australian government clarified that it was not seeking to reset the relationship with China during Albanese’s visit, but rather aiming to stabilize it, Chinese state-run media warned of challenges preventing a return to previous bilateral relations. The Global Times attributed the strained relationship to the United States’ Indo-Pacific strategy and cautioned Australia against allowing its ties with Beijing to be influenced by the United States.