China lifts punitive tariffs on Australian wine after three years

SYDNEY -- China's Ministry of Commerce announced Thursday it will lift the punitive tariffs that have plagued Australian vintners for three years, signaling an end to an especially challenging phase for the industry.

"We welcome this outcome, which comes at a critical time for the Australian wine industry," said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. "The re-entry of Australian bottled wine into the Chinese market will benefit both Australian producers and Chinese consumers."