An agreement has been reached to allow the resumption of Australian rock lobster exports to China, a move welcomed by the Australian Seafood Trade Advisory Group (STAG) as a victory for the local fishing industry. The ban, in place since 2020, had led to a 50% drop in exports, with China being Australia's largest buyer in 2019. The industry has since diversified its markets but has not been able to fully compensate for the loss of the Chinese market. The resumption of negotiations will be facilitated by the agreement, despite ongoing protectionist policies and challenges. The Australian seafood industry's long-term strategy targets exports of 2 billion Australian dollars by 2030.