Bay of Plenty exporters and tourism operators could benefit from new government agreements forged during Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to China, which wrapped up this week in Beijing.

Luxon met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People, with the pair issuing a Joint Statement of Outcomes and overseeing the signing of 11 new arrangements aimed at strengthening trade, climate cooperation, tourism, and cultural exchange.

“These arrangements will help New Zealand exporters by opening up new trade and making existing trade faster, predictable and cheaper,” said Luxon.

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of engaging with China on both common interests and points of difference, raising topics such as human rights and Pacific engagement.

“I raised with Premier Li a number of issues that are important to New Zealand,” said Luxon, adding that Pacific partnerships must reflect the priorities of Pacific nations.

He also expressed concern over rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, and stressed the importance of regional stability.

Alongside his political meetings, Luxon led a delegation of business leaders to promote premium New Zealand products—including food, beverage, and health goods—to the Chinese market.

“The visit has reinforced for me that New Zealand remains well-placed to meet the evolving needs of Chinese consumers,” said Luxon.

He also pitched New Zealand as a destination for Chinese tourists and students, pointing to education, people-to-people links and international air travel as key connectors.

“Inbound tourists and students bring people together, build understanding, and support jobs across New Zealand,” he said.

While in Beijing, Luxon also met with President Xi Jinping, National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji, and Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining. Discussions covered climate, security, parliamentary exchanges, and further economic opportunities.

The Bay of Plenty could see direct benefit, particularly in tourism and export sectors. Luxon highlighted that the arrangements aim to reduce barriers, speed up trade flows, and deepen cultural and educational exchange.

The China leg of the trip concluded Luxon’s time in Asia, before he departs for Europe for the next stage of his five-day programme.