❓ The Premier confirms the extension of a favorable EU trade quota for WA rock lobster, reducing tariffs and boosting export value. This follows sustained lobbying efforts and aims for fairer market access.
AnsweredQoN 58Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
Can the Premier confirm details of a lucrative three-year export deal struck with the European Union? Dr G.I. GALLOP
AnswerView source ↗
In October last year I had the pleasure of announcing that the European Union had approved a 1 500 tonne autonomous trade quota for Western Australia’s rock lobster. The term of that initial decision lasted only until 31 December 2003, but I now inform the House that the European Union has extended the new quota arrangement for a further three years. In effect, this means - Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: In October last year I had the pleasure of announcing that the European Union had approved a 1 500 tonne autonomous trade quota for Western Australia’s rock lobster. The term of that initial decision lasted only until 31 December 2003, but I now inform the House that the European Union has extended the new quota arrangement for a further three years. In effect, this means - Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
In October last year I had the pleasure of announcing that the European Union had approved a 1 500 tonne autonomous trade quota for Western Australia’s rock lobster. The term of that initial decision lasted only until 31 December 2003, but I now inform the House that the European Union has extended the new quota arrangement for a further three years. In effect, this means - Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: In October last year I had the pleasure of announcing that the European Union had approved a 1 500 tonne autonomous trade quota for Western Australia’s rock lobster. The term of that initial decision lasted only until 31 December 2003, but I now inform the House that the European Union has extended the new quota arrangement for a further three years. In effect, this means - Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
In October last year I had the pleasure of announcing that the European Union had approved a 1 500 tonne autonomous trade quota for Western Australia’s rock lobster. The term of that initial decision lasted only until 31 December 2003, but I now inform the House that the European Union has extended the new quota arrangement for a further three years. In effect, this means - Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Mr R.F. Johnson: It is good news. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: Well, is it not good news? Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Mr R.F. Johnson: That is why you are answering the question. Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: Am I not allowed to give good news? In effect, this means that rock lobster exported from Western Australia to the EU, which used to attract a 12.5 per cent tariff, will now attract a tariff of only six per cent for at least the next three years. The export sales of 1 500 tonnes to Europe is worth about $37 million a year to Western Australia. Until now the Western Australian lobster industry has faced a discriminatory tariff regime when selling product to the EU, attracting a tariff of 12.5 per cent, compared with six per cent for comparable species from our competitor countries, such as the United States of America and Canada, and of course it is three per cent for Mexico and Cuba. This tariff concession will put us on a more level playing field with our competitors and for the first time it will allow access to the European market on a competitive basis. The reduced tariff is limited to product that is whole, raw and frozen. Exporters would still prefer to supply alternate value-added product, such as chilled or live lobster, which can access premium restaurant or retail markets, but in terms of product and pack style this decision represents a significant step into what could be a very lucrative future market. In cooperation with the fishing industry, the Government of Western Australia has worked hard to achieve this result. A sustained campaign has been waged on this issue for the past five years. I acknowledge that the member for Stirling was involved in this matter in earlier times. In the past two years the State Government has received great assistance from its Agent General in London. The Government has contributed $50 000 to assist the industry in its campaign and this has been supported by Australian ambassadors in major European countries. Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Mr P.D. Omodei: This is a ministerial statement. Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: It is very important news for all in our crayfishing industry. The past year has seen challenging times for the industry, and the European Union’s decision is a significant advance for exporters in this State. We must keep negotiating with the relevant EU officials to gain even better access and to reduce tariff rates for live and chilled product. The upcoming Brussels seafood fare represents an excellent opportunity to continue these negotiations. It is important that we build on our current status in the fishing industry. Of course we have an ecologically sustainable fishery, certified by an internationally recognised Marine Stewardship Council. There is no doubt that WA has a great industry. I applaud the government representatives in London and the fishing industry for the campaign that has been undertaken to win this decision from the EU. It is the first part of what will be a continuing campaign to gain fairness for our fisheries. This means that they can pursue the diversification of the market, which is so important to those in the industry given the vagaries of it.
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