China hungry for SA produce as exports soar 32%

South Australia’s food and beverage exports to China have surged by 32.4% to $1.84 billion in the past year, an increase of more than $450 million, as the state showcases its premium local produce at one of the world’s largest international trade expos.

The strong growth comes as South Australia takes centre stage at the China International Import Expo (CIIE), being held in Shanghai from 5–10 November, showcasing its most comprehensive and diverse range of premium local produce to Chinese buyers.

Newly released Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data shows South Australia’s total exports to China reached $4.2 billion in the year to September 2026, with food and beverage exports driving much of this growth.

Wine, barley, almonds, lobster and sheep meat are among the South Australian products leading the surge in exports to China, the state’s largest trading partner.

Held at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre, the CIIE is expected to attract more than 460,000 attendees across its enormous 440,000 square metre exhibition space, providing a major opportunity for South Australian businesses to expand their presence in the Chinese market.

Supported by the Government of South Australia, nearly 40 local wine, spirits, seafood, meat, honey and other producers are being showcased in the South Australia Pavilion.

For the first time, industry peak bodies including Food SA, Seafood Industry South Australia and Distillers SA have also been supported by the State Government to boost industry participation at the expo.

The collaboration highlights the diversity of South Australian produce through a dedicated wine and spirits bar, product displays, tastings and live cooking demonstrations.

The South Australia Pavilion is part of the Federal Government's 1,500 square metre Australian Pavilion.

In the lead-up to CIIE, a Taste of South Australia event was also held to further support the South Australian exhibitors to connect with key Chinese trade buyers. This event was hosted by Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven as part of her trade mission to the region.

Immediately following CIIE, a delegation of major Chinese hospitality importers that serve over 15,000 restaurant, banquet and hotel members nationwide, will travel directly to South Australia for a dedicated sourcing and procurement tour. The group will visit regional seafood producers, helping to translate relationships formed at the expo into commercial opportunities.

Recent export growth to China has been further bolstered by direct flights between South Australia and China with the commencement of China Eastern Airline’s service from Shanghai, as well as an increase in China Southern Airline’s flights from Guangzhou.