China accuses Australia of playing the victim and politicising trade, says coal ban is ‘responsible act’

China has defended its alleged ban on Australian coal as both legal and good for Chinese consumers and companies, accusing Australia of playing the victim as the fraught relationship continues to deteriorate.

“The Chinese authorities have recently taken measures against some imported Australian products in accordance with law and regulations,” said Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at a regular press conference Tuesday in Beijing.

“It is in line with…