Australia’s peak business groups have welcomed Anthony Albanese’s mission to China but cautioned the relationship will not return to its former self and that businesses were right to diversify their export markets.
Mr Albanese will spend Sunday in Shanghai and will visit the Chinese International Import Expo at which hundreds of Australian businesses will be touting their wares.Australian Industry Group chief executive officer Innes Willox said the government was correct to be downplaying expectations ahead of the visit and business, too, needed to be wary.
“However, given the size and strength of the market and the fact that we enjoy a trade surplus with China, it remains economically vital that Australia has a stable political and diplomatic relationship with Beijing. “While this visit is significant, as the prime minister has noted, there are still issues to be resolved, and we support the government’s approach on those matters,” he said.
Acting Opposition Leader Sussan Ley supported the prime minister’s mission but said it would be judged on results.