China - Measures Concerning Trade in Goods and Services

Request to Join Consultations

Communication from Australia

The following communication, dated 8 February 2022, from the delegation of Australia to the delegation of China, and the delegation of the European Union, is circulated to the Dispute Settlement Body in accordance with Article 4.11 of the DSU.

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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 ("China") that, in light of the substantial trade interest of Australia, it desires to be joined in China's consultations with the European Union ("EU"), pursuant to the communication entitled China – Measures Concerning Trade in Goods and Services circulated to WTO Members on 31 January 2022 (WT/DS610/1).

Australia has a substantial trade interest in these consultations, which concern China's alleged import bans or import restrictions on certain products, alleged export bans or export restrictions on certain products, and alleged restrictions or prohibitions on the supply of services.

As you are aware, China is Australia's largest trading partner. In 2020, China's two-way goods and services trade with Australia was valued at AUD246 billion and Australia's exports to China were valued at AUD160 billion. Given the extent and value of this trading relationship, Australia has substantial commercial and systemic interests in ensuring that China's measures affecting trade are applied in accordance with the WTO Agreements.

Having regard to the rights and obligations of WTO Members under Article 4.11 of the DSU, Australia looks forward to receiving your reply.