The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has today opened public consultation on a new regulatory framework for the export of non-prescribed agricultural goods.
Head of Trade and Regulation, Tina Hutchison said the new framework would help to safeguard market access for exporters of wool, rendered products, hides and skins, pet food, stock feed, feed additives, processed foods, honey, pharmaceuticals, blood products and more.
"Australia has a reputation as a reliable supplier of safe and high-quality agricultural products," Ms Hutchison said.
"We want to maintain and enhance that reputation in the face of growing global demand and competition.
"The reforms will enable the department to better provide government-to-government assurances and to trace, stop and recall exports if necessary.
"They will also allow the department to charge fairly and appropriately for the services it provides, and to allocate costs to those who receive them.
Ms Hutchison said improving and simplifying processes would also provide better support for market access negotiations and maintenance.
"The new export assurance framework will help to instil greater confidence among our trading partners and further strengthen Australia's position as a trusted source of premium agricultural products."
Have your say on the proposed reforms here: https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/export-assurance-reform.
