Visit to China

Today I will travel to Beijing to meet with China’s Minister of Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, to progress the resolution of outstanding trade impediments.

My visit to Beijing builds on our constructive virtual meeting in February, and follows the Prime Minister’s meeting with President Xi Jinping in November 2022, and the Foreign Minister’s meetings with her counterparts in 2022 and March this year.

In February, Minister Wang and I agreed to enhanced dialogue at all levels as a pathway towards the full resumption of trade. Since then, the Australian Government is pleased there have been several positive trade developments, including the resumption of coal, cotton, and copper trade and China’s agreement to undertake an expedited review of duties on Australian barley.

During my visit I will be advocating strongly for the full resumption of unimpeded Australian exports to China – for all sectors – to the benefit of both countries and in the interests of Australian exporters and producers. I will also raise other issues of importance to Australians.

I will also co-chair the 16th Joint Ministerial Economic Commission with Minister Wang.

The Joint Ministerial Economic Commission, which last convened in Beijing in 2017, is another important step in the stabilisation of Australia’s relationship with China.

China is Australia’s largest trading partner, with two-way trade in goods worth $287 billion in 2022.

While in Beijing, I look forward to meeting with other Chinese political leaders and business representatives, including Australian businesses and workers operating in China.