The business delegation travelling with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins to China will have a dual focus that will benefit
New Zealand’s economy and relationship with China.
The Prime Minister will be accompanied by 29 delegates, encompassing a range of export sectors, including tourism and
education.
A detailed programme has been prepared for the delegation, with a focus on Beijing and Shanghai over five days. They
will be accompanied by the Minister for Trade and Export Growth, Damien O’Connor, and the Minister for Tourism, Peeni
Henare.
NZTE’s Regional Director for China, Andrew White, said the delegates would benefit from the visit themselves, and in
turn provide a boost for New Zealand’s profile in China.
“We have arranged a series of briefings for them to enhance their understanding of China and the dynamics that are
affecting its economy.
“Of course, many of the delegates are very experienced and already have successful business operations in China, but
change is constant here, and you can never have enough information to determine where the opportunities lie for your own
business or your sector.
“One of the great benefits of a business mission like this is the opportunity to spend time with the other delegates. We
know, from the New Zealand businesses that we work with, that it can be quite a lonely experience, meeting the many
challenges of building an export company.
“Spending time with others who are facing the same challenges is very valuable, and we have ensured there are
opportunities within the programme for the delegates to share their insights and experiences.”
Mr White said the presence of the delegation would enhance New Zealand’s profile in China.
“The Prime Minister’s visit will draw significant coverage in the Chinese media. That interest will extend to the
delegates, a number of whom will also have the opportunity to connect with their existing partners in China and involve
them in some of the delegation’s activities.
“This mission won’t just benefit those who are involved, it will have a strong positive impact on the New Zealand brand
in China, and every New Zealand company that is active here will benefit from that.”
Mr White said all New Zealand Government officials in China were excited by the forthcoming mission.
“Led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), there has been outstanding collaboration across NZ Inc to make
this a very successful mission. We’re delighted that, in collaboration with our counterparts in the tourism and
education sectors and the Ministry for Primary Industries, we have been able to prepare such a strong delegation to
accompany the Prime Minister.”
-----------------------------------------About New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise – Te Taurapa Tūhono (NZTE) is the New Zealand government's international business
development agency, working to grow companies internationally for the good of New Zealand.
NZTE provides customised support services and support to ambitious businesses looking to go global, helping them to
build their capability, boost their global reach, connect to other businesses and invest in their growth. It also
connects international investors with opportunities in New Zealand through a global network of investment advisors.