China – Tariff rate Quotas for Certain Agricultural Products

Request to Join Consultations

Communication from Australia

The following communication, dated 22 December 2016, from the delegation of Australia to the delegation of China, the delegation of the United States and to the Chairperson of the Dispute Settlement Body, is circulated in accordance with Article 4.11 of the DSU.

_______________

Pursuant to Article 4.11 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU), Australia notifies the Government of the People's Republic of China that, in light of the substantial trade interest of Australia, it desires to be joined in China's consultations with the United States pursuant to the communication entitled China – Tariff Rate Quotas for Certain Agricultural Products circulated to WTO Members on 21 December 2016 (WT/DS517/1).

Australia has substantial trade and commercial interests in this matter as a significant exporter of agricultural products to China. In 2015 China was estimated to be Australia's largest agricultural market, with exports totalling A$9.8 billion. This included A$466 million in wheat exports and A$544 million in the export of other cereals.

Mindful of the rights and obligations of WTO Members under Article 4.11 of the DSU, Australia looks forward to receiving your reply, and advice of the date and venue of the consultations.

__________