Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry Photo: fmprc.gov.cn

Chinese customs' inspection of seafood imports is in accordance with China's law and aimed at ensuring the safety of imported food, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday, in response to a reported "hold-up" of live Australian lobsters at Chinese customs.

Tons of live Australian lobsters, worth millions of dollars, risk being spoiled if they cannot get customs clearance within 48 hours, the Sydney Morning Herald reported on Sunday.

China always adheres to the principle of developing bilateral relationships on the grounds of mutual respect and mutual benefit, and believes a sound bilateral relationship between China and Australia serves the fundamental interests of both countries and peoples, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday.

China hopes the Australian side will act in a way that is more conducive to building up mutual trust and cooperation, and in the spirit of the China-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, bringing the bilateral relationship back on normal track as soon as possible, the spokesperson said.