Premier

Victorian Wool Captures Lucrative Chinese Eye

09 February 2020

For the first time in its 20-year history, the powerful China Wool Industrial Association (CWIA) has met outside China, at the historical Lal Lal Estate near Ballarat.

Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, welcomed more than 130 delegates representing China’s 80 major wool processors in a show of strength for increasing demand for Australian, in particular Victorian, fine merino wool and the ability of our producers to supply the finest in quality.

Australia has a $3 billion export wool industry, with 80 per cent exported to China for manufacturing and local use, and continues to be the largest global producer of fine apparel wool (under 24 microns).

The Andrews Labor Government is working closely with wool growers to ensure they have the tools and connections they need to trade with the world’s largest market.

Victoria is leading the charge with the introduction of electronic tagging of sheep and goats, which is another critical step we have taken to enhance Victoria’s reputation as the best source of quality wool for Chinese manufacturers.

Electronic tagging doesn’t just improve traceability and Victoria’s biosecurity system, but is giving consumers world-wide trust in our sheepmeat and wool industries.

Lal Lal Estate is owned by Mr. Qingnan Wen, President of Tianyu Wool in China, and runs approximately 12,000 merinos, producing high quality fine wool and prime lambs.

China is Victoria’s most important and largest economic trading partner. Strengthening this relationship will contribute to Victoria’s growing economy and will create new jobs in agriculture sector.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford

“It speaks volumes that the China Wool Industrial Association has chosen Victoria to host its conference.”

“We’re leading the nation when it comes to food and fibre exports and our producers should be proud that demand for world-class quality you can trust continues to rise.”

“With wool prices surging ahead, and China continuing to make record investments in processing and innovation, now is the time for Victoria to strengthen the relationship with our number one trading partner.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis

“China is an ideal market to expand Victoria’s wool exports as it has the world's largest population, booming middle class and an increasing demand for premium goods.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight

“Today’s meeting on Victorian soil is an opportunity to grow and strengthen the China-Victoria wool relationship.”

Reviewed 26 June 2020

Was this page helpful?