Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Beijing yesterday, with trade relations in general and the China-Australia FTA (ChAFTA) in particular as two of the key topics of discussion.

Controversial from the start, a Chinese company's lease of the Port of Darwin became an issue during Australia's national elections in early May, and could be subject to a forced divestment.

At today's press conference, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) spokesperson He Yadong addressed several issues affecting international trade relations: Drone exports to the U.S. and Europe, Australian lobster imports, and U.S. efforts to remove Chinese telecom equipment.

The Australian government has announced that the remaining hurdles to selling Australian meat in China have now been lifted.

After Australia and China reached agreement on allowing lobster exports to China, Australian government officials have denied that there was a "quid pro quo" deal in which Australia now owes China something, with China's application to join the CPTPP mentioned in this context.

One of the last products that had been subject to recently imposed Chinese restrictions on Australian exports has had its access restored, as Australian rock lobsters can be sold in China again.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang just concluded a trip to Australia, as the two sides continue efforts to mend their economic relationship after several years of tensions.