Australia says lobster exports to China to resume after diplomatic spat over Covid-origins halted trade

Australian exports of live rock lobster to China can restart immediately, the Australian Government said on Friday following a notification from China.

The decision marks the resolution of all outstanding trade impediments imposed by China on Australian exports, after ties between the two nations had stabilised, the government said in a statement.

"This is a fantastic outcome for the Australian lobster industry and for Chinese consumers who will be able to enjoy delicious Australian live rock lobster in time for Lunar New Year celebrations," Trade Minister Don Farrell said.

China first imposed unofficial bans and tariffs on Australian goods worth A$20 billion (US$12 billion) ranging from coal to wine and rock lobster in late 2020 in a diplomatic dispute, after Canberra called for an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19.

(Reporting by Kirsty Needham in Sydney. Editing by Neil Fullick)