Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay announced that up to $450 million worth of new deals and partnerships were secured at the China International Import Expo (CIIE).
During his visit, over 20 Memorandums of Understanding and supply agreements were signed between New Zealand and Chinese companies.
The event saw participation from more than 80 New Zealand businesses from a wide range of industries, such as food and beverage, health care, and technology.
“China is an important market,” McClay said. “This event was a chance to showcase the broad range of premium, high-quality Kiwi offerings.”
“This government continues to support New Zealand exporters in market to drive value and innovation.”
According to McClay, an example is the new ‘Grass-Fed’ standard, through which the government collaborates with industry to promote New Zealand’s agricultural sector and boost farmgate returns.
The visit took place alongside the world’s biggest online sales event, Double Eleven – an annual shopping festival held in November each year and recognised as the largest online retail event globally.
“E-commerce and digital trade has become essential for many New Zealand exporters in China in order to keep up with fast-changing consumer demands,” McClay said.
McClay also highlighted the strategic priority of increasing export value over the next decade, underlining the crucial role of the Chinese market.
“The Chinese market remains vital as we work towards doubling the value of exports in 10 years,” he said.