Deepening Economic, Educational, and Cultural Ties for New Zealand's Future

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, on his first official visit to China since assuming office in 2023, is prioritizing the expansion of economic cooperation, educational collaboration, and cultural ties. China is a crucial partner for New Zealand, serving as its largest trading partner, the primary source of foreign students, and a significant source of tourists.

Luxon's visit includes a business delegation representing sectors such as food and beverage, health, education, and tourism. The delegation arrived in Shanghai, coinciding with a major online shopping event in China.

During his visit, Luxon emphasized the importance of the relationship, highlighting that China is New Zealand's largest trading partner, accounting for over 20 percent of its exports. He expressed a focus on growing trade in areas where New Zealand excels, including education, tourism, and agriculture.

In 2024, trade between China and New Zealand reached a substantial value, with a significant portion of New Zealand's total exports going to China. China remains a key market for various sectors, including dairy, timber, and meat.

In Shanghai, Luxon met with New Zealand business representatives and promoted exports, tourism, and educational opportunities. He highlighted the signing of commercial agreements between New Zealand businesses and their Chinese partners, demonstrating the strength of the trade relationship.

Luxon also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding for strategic cooperation between Tourism New Zealand and a major Chinese travel company. He emphasized the positive impact of increased tourism on local businesses, economic growth, and job creation.

During a livestreaming session with a Chinese travel company, Luxon promoted New Zealand's tourist attractions and extended a personal invitation to Chinese travelers. He also highlighted recent visa policy changes aimed at making it easier for Chinese visitors to travel to New Zealand.

Speaking at Fudan University in Shanghai, Luxon emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections in fostering strong international ties. He highlighted the role of students in both countries as a bridge between New Zealand and China. He also affirmed the growing collaboration between Fudan University and New Zealand universities, focusing on deepening education links.