just lost single desk + article
AWB suspends monopoly on wheat exports Prime Minister John Howard has revealed that AWB has agreed to temporarily end its monopoly on wheat exports to ensure trade can still be undertaken with Iraq.
The Iraqi Grains Board has suspended business with AWB until the Cole inquiry is complete - a decision that could result in Australia missing out on supplying almost a million tonnes of wheat to Iraq.
Mr Howard met with the AWB chairman and acting managing director to discuss the matter today.
The Prime Minister has told Parliament a senior delegation led by Trade Minister Mark Vaile will go to Iraq as soon as possible in a bid to secure an Iraqi wheat contract.
Mr Howard says AWB has agreed to give up its current export monopoly to assist that process.
"The delegation will explore all options to secure the continued access to Australian wheat to this important market," he said.
"Among these options AWB Limited has indicated its willingness on a voluntary basis not to exercise its veto on this tender."
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