Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to arrive in China this weekend for an official visit focused on enhancing trade and economic ties, while also addressing regional cooperation and investment concerns. The six-day trip will cover key business engagements across Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu.
With China being Australia’s largest trading partner—accounting for A$312 billion in two-way trade last year—Prime Minister Albanese underscored the economic significance of the relationship, stating, “The relationship with China means jobs in Australia. It’s as simple as that.”
Accompanying the Prime Minister are executives from Australia’s leading mining and energy companies, including representatives from Rio Tinto, BHP, and Fortescue. Together, they are expected to explore new opportunities in sectors such as critical minerals, clean energy, and infrastructure, while attending business forums in three major Chinese cities.
While Australia has increased its review process on foreign investments in sensitive industries like critical minerals and renewable energy, Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasized this week that national interest remains the guiding principle. The heightened scrutiny is part of a broader effort to balance economic opportunity with strategic resilience.
The trip includes a high-level leaders’ dialogue with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, where discussions are expected to include trade facilitation, digital innovation, and China’s interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade pact chaired by Australia.
Geoff Raby, a former Australian ambassador to China, highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue, cautioning against policies that may foster economic isolationism. “Engaging directly supports regional stability and helps promote more open economic policy approaches,” he noted.
The visit also serves to reaffirm Australia’s position of maintaining open and respectful communication on matters of shared interest and difference. “We cooperate where we can and we disagree where we must,” said Albanese. “Direct engagement is critical for both security and economic progress.”
The Prime Minister’s itinerary underscores the government’s commitment to promoting long-term trade partnerships, expanding business-to-business cooperation, and fostering dialogue that supports sustainable regional development.
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