As an update to Bulletin 199 we have been advised of new difficulties which Iraq appears to be creating for the import of wheat from Australia. This action is reported to have begun in July 2002, coincidental with Iraq having asked Australia to confirm that they would not support the USA's proposed action against it. This was not forthcoming and Iraq immediately announced a review of Australian wheat imports for the pending year. These may be halved.

At present there are three ships alongside in Umm Qasr, Iraq, with cargoes of Australian wheat which are suffering many alleged problems such as infestation, iron and steel particle contamination and sulphur contamination. The ship supposed to have sulphur contaminated wheat has not carried such a cargo in its recent past. These events are causing major delays.

Members should be aware that when exporting Australian wheat for import to Iraq major delays/problems should be expected.


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The information provided in this bulletin is believed to be correct, but we do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy.