The South Australian Government is celebrating wine exports to China reaching a new post-tariff record high of $790 million.

A new campaign targeting the popular BISTRO chain of restaurants, aims to turbocharge that growth in the culinary capitals of Shanghai and Shenzhen. A total of 37 of the eateries have been selected to showcase the best of South Australia including beef, seafood, juice and wine.

Launched in Shanghai by the Minister for Trade and Investment, Joe Szakacs, during his trade mission to China, the month-long BISTRO campaign aims to open up a new export pathway for South Australian producers.

The concept represents a new entry point for South Australian wine producers and is supported by the South Australian Government’s $1.85 million Wine Exporters China Re-engagement Support Program.

It aims to further strengthen South Australian wine exports to China which have continued to climb to new heights since tariffs were removed last year, reaching $790 million in the 12 months to February 2025.

Eighteen South Australian food and wine brands are participating in the program including Torbreck, Taylors, Yalumba, Cimicky, Rymill, Wynns of Coonawarra, Thorn Clark, Kay Brothers, Mount Horrock, Pewsey Vale, Greenock Creek, Barossa Valley Estate, Golden Heights, John Dovel, Kirrihill, Ashton Valley, Stehr Group and Thomas Foods International.

The state’s wine and seafood industries have reestablished their presence in China – together exporting more than $850 million in the year to February 2025.

The South Australian Government said that “given the recent world events, and uncertainty around tariffs, it’s more important than ever to ensure South Australia’s relationships with other trading partners, particularly China, remain strong and continue to grow”.

The latest ABS trade data shows South Australia’s total merchandise exports to China rose by 12% to hit $4 billion.

The figures come as South Australia’s export growth into China continues to advance with the signing of an historic $40 million export deal with China Eastern Airlines Cold Chain Logistics Ltd.

Minister Szakacs engaged with high-ranking Chinese government officials and education institutions during his visit to further strengthen trade, investment and cultural links.

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