Future growth in the lobster industry is likely to depend on China,where rising income levels have pushed up demand and prices according to the Australian government research organisation ABARES.

Southern Rocklobster Limited executive officer Tom Cosentino said Australian lobster shipments had experienced customs clearance delays due to an increased level of import inspections in China.

"Whilst some cargo has been cleared there are other continued risks of delays while new processes are being implemented,"he said."To mitigate this risk a decision has been made by the majority of new exporters to stop sending shipments to China until more is known about the new process."

Mr Cosentino said details were scant but the information available suggested the tests related to new health and reliance checks.

"We’re confident that the Australian rock lobster industry’s reputation as a global leader in quality,reliability and sustainability will meet the standards of the new processes."

An employee at wholesaler Shanghai Kangzhitai Seafood,who asked not to be identified,said he had heard about Australian lobsters for multiple local companies being held up by Chinese customs in Shanghai. He did not comment on the reason for the hold up.

Mr Cosentino confirmed the Seafood Trade Advisory Group,a joint industry-government body,had formed a working group that will meet daily in a bid to resolve the issue.

In March the government funded and organised 200 flights to send Australian lobsters to key markets including China to stave off a crippling downturn for the industry caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Chinese Embassy in Canberra did not respond to requests for comment in time for publication.