Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Australia Braces for Coal Export Ban as Relations With China Plummet

Phil Mercer

   SYDNEY - Australia is calling for China to clarify reports in a
   state-owned media outlet that it has banned imports of Australian coal.
   Rising political disagreements between the two trading partners
   coincide with a range of tariffs and restrictions Beijing has imposed
   on Australian agricultural exports.

   A ban on coal exports to China would cost Australia billions of dollars
   and further inflame tensions between the two countries.

   The Global Times newspaper said a new policy would shut Australia out
   of China's lucrative trade in coal. The publication, which is
   considered to be sanctioned by the Chinese government, reported the
   move would stabilize coal prices.

.