China slaps 55% tariff on Australian beef as trade and geopolitical tensions rise

China has imposed a 55% tariff on Australian beef imports that exceed quota limits, a move that threatens more than $1 billion in annual trade and has reignited tensions between Canberra and Beijing. The restrictions, effective from January 1 for three years, cap Australia’s beef quota at 205,000 tonnes—below the volume China imported in 2024—prompting industry claims the decision undermines the spirit of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement.

Calm fears

Beef producers warn the impact could be severe, with exports to China potentially falling by as much as one-third compared to 2025 levels. Industry groups say the move advantages rival exporters, with Brazil and Argentina receiving far larger quotas, raising concerns Australia could permanently lose market share in a key global market. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sought to calm fears, saying Australia is not being singled out and describing the beef sector as the strongest it has ever been.

The tariff decision comes against the backdrop of growing geopolitical strain, days after Australia criticised China’s “Justice Mission 2025” military drills near Taiwan as destabilising. Opposition figures are urging the government to leverage diplomatic ties with President Xi Jinping to ensure Australia is not swept up in broader trade retaliation, as industry calls mount for urgent talks to stabilise relations.

Where to switch off, reset and travel well for a week

For executives in their 40s, travel has shifted. It is less about ticking off sights and more about space, comfort and coming back sharper than when you left.

In 2026, the most appealing one-week holidays are destinations that combine calm, quality and a sense of being ahead of the curve.

For executives, switching off from work is essential, but true rest comes from being gently engaged rather than completely idle.

The most rewarding breaks offer just enough stimulation, culture, nature or conversation, to quiet the mind without replacing one form of busyness with another.

Here are five global locations quietly rising to the top of travel wish lists.

East Coast Barbados

Barbados has long been associated with polished beach holidays, but the east coast offers something different.

Wild Atlantic surf, boutique retreats and fewer crowds create a slower rhythm that suits travellers who want proper rest without sacrificing style.

Days are spent between long coastal walks, ocean-facing spas and unhurried dinners, with just enough local culture to keep things interesting.

Barbados: Book a holiday package (flights + hotel) to Barbados here.

Phu Quoc

Vietnam’s largest island is emerging as a refined alternative to more established Asian beach destinations.

Phu Quoc blends thoughtful luxury with a grounded, local feel. Resorts are discreet rather than flashy, wellness is taken seriously, and the pace encourages doing very little very well.

It is an easy week of warm water swims, exceptional food and genuine mental downtime.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam: Find holiday packages and deals for Phu Quoc here.

Peloponnese

For travellers who want culture without crowds, the Peloponnese is becoming Greece’s most compelling region.

Ancient ruins sit alongside olive groves, quiet beaches and wellness-focused resorts designed for long lunches and early nights.

It offers the Mediterranean experience executives love, without the intensity of Santorini or Mykonos.

Peloponnese, Greece: Browse and book Peloponnese holiday packages with flights and hotels here.

The Red Sea

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast is one of the most ambitious luxury travel projects in the world.

Opening progressively through 2025 and 2026, it promises adults-focused resorts built around sustainability, privacy and high-end wellness.

For those seeking something genuinely new, this is a destination that feels exclusive, restorative and future-facing.

Red Sea Coast (gateway for Red Sea resorts): Book a Red Sea Coast holiday package (flight + hotel) here.

Margaret River

Margaret River continues to refine its appeal for travellers who value space and quality. World-class wineries, dramatic coastline and understated luxury accommodation make it ideal for a reset without jet lag.

It is a reminder that a great week away does not need excess. It needs good food, good wine and room to breathe.

In 2026, the best holidays for executives are not about escape in the dramatic sense. They are about intention. A change of pace, fewer decisions, and environments designed to help you slow down properly. These destinations understand that luxury is not about doing more, but about feeling better when you return.

Margaret River, Western Australia: Find Margaret River holiday packages (accommodation + flight) here.

Iran’s president engages protesters amid economic crisis as currency tumbles and inflation surges

Link

Embed

Copy and paste this HTML code into your webpage to embed.