As political tensions rise between China and Australia, Canadian barley producers are reaping the benefits with an uptick in exports this summer.Due to the harsh tariffs and trading tensions from outside markets, one southern Alberta farmer noted his crops have been in high demand this season — both locally and internationally. “There’s been a price spike because of it,” John McKee said. “Unfortunately, I understand the reason is political, not because somebody really wants our high-quality barley.” China won’t respond to pleas to ease tension after call for coronavirus probe: Australia Tensions first arose between the countries when Australia asked for a coronavirus probe into China.