The Wire

As our third largest trading partner, Australian consumers are used to reading “Made in China” on everything from clothes to coffee makers. But this week the federal government is being accused of letting the Chinese put their run the agenda on free trade agreement negotiations with Australia. Moves towards an agreement began in late 2003, and a feasibility study was initiated. The Trade Minister Mark Vaille (VALE) has now announced that the study has nearly concluded with favorable results. But there are grave concerns about developing a stronger relationship with a country whose commitment to human and workers rights, is scant. Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has said that demanding human rights conditions in the Free Trade Agreement would prove “utterly fruitless” and would be rejected ‘by China or any other country.” However, others disagree. Dr Patricia Ranald, is from the Australian Fair Trade and Investment Network and believes human rights should play a crucial role in the negotiations. She’s speaking here with Alma Mistry.

Australian Fair Trade and Investment Network