Chinese firms must decide whether to import coal ‘on their own’: China’s ambassador to Australia

China’s ambassador to Australia said he hoped Canberra and Beijing could normalise trade relations. However, Ambassador Xiao Qian continued to deny any embargo on Australian exports, despite touting a recent thaw in ties, saying instead that Chinese companies could decide on their own whether to resume imports of Australian coal. China’s state planner meanwhile reportedly held talks over the lifting of the unofficial ban.