China cancels "dual countermeasures" against Australian wine, Australia responds by revoking WTO litigation

According to Agence France Presse, Australia announced on the 28th that it will withdraw its lawsuit against China at the World Trade Organization (WTO) after China announced the cancellation of its "dual countermeasures" against Australian wine. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce earlier announced the termination of anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Australian imported wine.

"The re-entry of Australian bottled wine into the Chinese market will benefit both Australian producers and Chinese consumers," Australian Prime Minister Albanese and senior Australian ministers said in a joint statement. "The lifting of taxes means Australia will suspend legal proceedings in the WTO."

On March 28, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce issued a notice on the review of anti-dumping and countervailing measures applicable to imported wines originating from Australia, deciding to terminate the anti-dumping duty on imported wines originating from Australia from March 29, 2024; After the termination of anti-dumping duties, no countervailing duties shall be levied. The Ministry of Commerce has ruled that due to changes in the Chinese wine market, it is no longer necessary to impose anti-dumping and countervailing duties on imported wine originating from Australia.

Regarding China's cancellation of the dual countermeasures against Australian wine, spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, He Yadong, stated at a regular press conference on March 28 that with the joint efforts of both sides, China and Australia have reached a consensus to properly resolve the WTO dispute within the framework of the World Trade Organization. On November 30, 2023, the Ministry of Commerce, upon application from the Australian Grape and Wine Association, lawfully initiated a review investigation into the dual countermeasures against Australian wine. Subsequently, the investigation procedure was carried out in accordance with the law, and a comprehensive review of the claims and evidence of all stakeholders was conducted. On March 28, 2024, an official ruling announcement was issued, stating that due to changes in the Chinese wine market situation, anti-dumping and countervailing duties will no longer be imposed on imported wine originating from Australia. He Yadong said, "China and Australia are important trading partners for each other. We are willing to work with the Australian side to resolve each other's concerns through dialogue and consultation, and jointly promote the stable and healthy development of bilateral economic and trade relations."