The suspension follows moves by the Federal Government to veto any deals done between the states and foreign nations, which has been interpreted as an attack on Victoria’s decision to sign up to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

The Federal Government also vetoed a $600 million dairy takeover by China this week.

China has initiated its own retaliation by announcing an investigation in the alleged dumping of wine exports following similar moves on Australia’s barley exports.

Coal exports have also faced long delays at China ports.

According to a report in the China News Service, Chinese customs officials have notified their Australian counterparts asking them to launch an investigation into the beef company and report back to China in 45 days.

“In order to ensure the safety of imported meat products, the customs has officially notified Australia to suspend the export of the company to China, and requires Australia to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the relevant company within 45 days and provide feedback to the Chinese side,” a statement on China News said.

Beijing’s deputy ambassador to Australia, Wang Xining this week said the damaging disputes were like a marriage going through a troubled period, which was interpreted by some as a thawing in relations.

He also claimed Prime Minister Scott Morrison had offended the Chinese people over his call for an inquiry into COVID-19 outbreak.

John Dee Warwick can process about 120,000 head of cattle a year and exports to all the major Asian markets as well as North America.

John Dee has been contacted for comment.