Lunar New Year serves up mixed fortunes for food exporters grounded by tariffs, lockdowns

It was supposed to be the busiest time of their year, but Australian exporters are facing mixed fortunes this Lunar New Year.

For lobster fishers in Far North Queensland, 2021 is looking dire due to ongoing trade tensions between Australia and China as well as continued coronavirus restrictions in Asia.

The hand-caught seafood delicacy normally fetches up to $70 per kilogram during Lunar New Year, a peak demand period.

Torres Straits Seafood manager…