Business welcomes China visit to further enhance economic ties
22 October 2023
The Business Council supports this critical dialogue with Australia's largest trading partner, with Prime Minister Albanese’s upcoming visit to the People’s Republic of China representing another step in nurturing a stable and mutually beneficial relationship between our two nations, Business Council chief executive Bran Black said.
“The Prime Minister’s forthcoming visit to Beijing and Shanghai will continue the Government’s productive discussions with China’s leadership over the past year.
“We support the ongoing efforts to facilitate trade, which have already yielded the removal of duties on Australian barley, and we eagerly anticipate a constructive and prompt resolution of the wine tariffs issue.
“The BCA warmly welcomes China's decision to review its tariffs on Australian wines. This development underscores the important role of maintaining robust economic ties between our nations.”
Chair of the BCA’s Global Engagement Committee, The Hon. Warwick Smith AO agrees:
“China remains Australia's largest trading partner, accounting for nearly a third of our total trade. The agreement with China to expedite a review of its wine tariffs is a positive step towards resolving our WTO wine dispute. We look forward to a constructive and timely resolution over the next five months."