Australian lobster smuggling threatens China's national security, top official says

Australian rock lobsters smuggled into mainland China pose a national security threat for the rising superpower, Hong Kong's new Customs chief has declared.

Louise Ho, the territory's new Customs commissioner, has pledged to crack down on the smuggling of the crustaceans, reports news agency AFP.

Australian lobster exports have been targeted by Chinese trade sanctions for the past year amid icy relations between Canberra and Beijing.

READ MORE: Qantas to restart international flights earlier than expected

But they remain a prized seafood delicacy among many Chinese people.

Recently Hong Kong has imported record numbers of Australian rock lobsters amid reports they are being smuggled to mainland China.

Ms Ho, after taking her new post on Thursday, said combating the smuggling was essential for maintaining China's security.

"On the surface, it is a simple matter of smuggling lobsters, but these activities undermine our country's trade restrictions against Australia," Ms Ho said.

"Stopping lobster smuggling is a very important part of protecting national security, so we will pursue it diligently."

Hong Kong authorities say triad gangs have been smuggling the Australian rock lobsters in speed boats to mainland China.

READ MORE: Australia slams Chinese trade sanctions as 'politically motivated'

In one incident in May, customs agents intercepted 569kg worth of live lobsters, valued at $25,000.

For years Australian live rock lobster exporters have been dependent on the China market, accounted for 95 per cent of rock lobster exports that were flown live from Australia.

But last November Beijing imposed a live export ban as relations with Canberra plummeted.

Rock lobster exports, along with Australian beef, barley, coal and wine producers, were targeted by Chinese trade sanctions after Canberra and Beijing clashed over the coronavirus, Hong Kong and foreign interference.