New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has made one thing clear: New Zealand still values its trade relationship with China. On Friday, during his first visit to Beijing since becoming PM in late 2023, Luxon met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and underlined the importance of keeping strong economic ties between the two countries.
China is New Zealand’s largest trading partner, accounting for over 20% of its exports. From dairy to meat to wine, China is a major buyer of what New Zealand makes. Luxon is on a mission to keep that relationship smooth, even as global politics become more complicated.
Before landing in Beijing, Luxon spent two days in Shanghai meeting business leaders and local officials. He used those talks to lay the groundwork for his Beijing meeting. The goal? Keep trade flowing, keep tensions low.
“Our trade and economic links are complementary and contribute to prosperity in both countries,” Luxon said in a statement after the meeting with Xi.
Still, this wasn’t just a photo-op. Luxon also raised big concerns with the Chinese leader. He stressed the need to lower tensions in the Indo-Pacific region and pointed out China’s unique role in resolving global issues like the war in Ukraine.
“In a complex world, open dialogue is more important than ever,” Luxon wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
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That statement carries extra weight. Just one day earlier, New Zealand paused millions in aid to the Cook Islands. Why? Because of growing concern over the Cook Islands’ deepening ties with China. That move sent a quiet signal that New Zealand is watching how China operates in the Pacific.
Even so, Luxon’s trip is a clear effort to walk a fine line—stand up for regional stability, but also protect New Zealand’s economic interests.
Keeping Trade Steady Amid Global Shifts
The world is shifting fast. With the U.S. and China drifting further apart, smaller nations like New Zealand are trying to stay balanced. Luxon’s visit shows that trade is still a top priority, even when politics get messy.
As tensions rise in Asia and beyond, New Zealand seems to be saying: we’re open for business, but we’re not blind to the risks.
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