China’s government has launched a “buy Chinese” campaign, promoting yabbies grown in Chinese fish ponds as “Australian lobster,” in an effort to bolster domestic production and protect against perceived hostility from the international community.

Despite Trade Minister Don Farrell’s unsuccessful attempts to secure relief for Australian exporters affected by Beijing’s actions, China has intensified its support for the so-called “freshwater Australian lobsters.”

The yabbies, a smaller crustacean native to Australia, are being reared in aquaculture ponds in Guangdong province.  This misleading marketing strategy has raised concerns among local industry representatives.

Luke speaks with Mary Nenke, Manager of the family-operated Cambinata Yabbies – based in the West Australian wheatbelt, who worries about the potential damage to the reputation of their pristine environment and authentic Australian products.

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