The rejection of cheap Asian prawns under tough new disease testing will force up the price of both Australian and overseas prawns, importers warn. Imported supplies of the nation’s favourite shellfish are already dwindling and prices have risen. Australian quarantine tests for disease have resulted in more than 300 tonnes, or 22 containers, of raw prawns being refused entry since October. Only seven containers had been allowed in up to December. Since October, one South Australian seafood distributor has raised wholesale prices for imported medium prawns by 30-40 per cent from $18.90/kg to $25.90/kg, reporting that some restaurants have begun buying smaller shrimp sizes. The tough new border controls have angered the hospitality industry, seafood importers and distributors, who fear the financial cost in the next year will top more than half a billion dollars. Hotels and clubs, budget bistros and popular Asian restaurants will bear the brunt of the shortages. Chairman of the Australian Seafood Importers Association Harry Peters says budget and middle-level dining soon won’t be able to source their usual produce and will have to charge more for seafood dishes. “The only alternative will be higher-priced Australian prawns,” Mr Peters said. “Your five stars and three hats restaurants will be OK, because they can pay the high prices and the people who eat there are happy to pay.” The Advertiser (Adelaide), January 7.
Jan 13
