'We're watching your back over China', US assures Australia

The Biden administration has pledged to stand by Australia in its worsening trade and diplomatic disputes with China.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne is visiting Washington DC and met with US officials including Secretary of State Antony Blinken overnight.

Mr Blinken said the US would stand by China amid growing tensions between Canberra and Beijing.

READ MORE: Concerns China may target Australian gas exports next

"I reiterate the United States will not leave Australia alone on the field, or maybe I should say alone on the pitch, in the face of economic coercion by China," Mr Blinken said.

"That's what allies do.

"We have each other's backs so we can face threats and challenges from a position of collective strength."

Ms Payne said Australia remained open to dialogue with Beijing but recognised there were major challenges in relations and welcomed US support.

"Australia seeks a constructive relationship with China. We stand ready at any time, amongst all of my counterparts and colleagues, to resume dialogue," Ms Payne said.

"But we have also been open and clear and consistent about the fact that we are dealing with a number of challenges."

Relations between Beijing and Canberra plummeted last year after Australia called for an international inquiry into the origins of the pandemic and introduced foreign interference legislation.

READ MORE: Australia 'open to dialogue' with China despite new economic hit

It triggered trade reprisals from China targeting Australian exports such as coal, barley, timber and seafood.

Souring relations between Canberra and Beijing have continued in recent months.

Last week the Chinese government announced it was suspending all activities under the China-Australia Strategic Economic Dialogue.