Australian companies are seeking stronger commercial ties with China as they participate in the China International Supply Chain Expo, where a range of Chinese innovations are being showcased for the benefit of global visitors.
The event, running from July 16 to 20 in Beijing, has attracted 651 companies and institutions from 75 countries and regions, seeking opportunities to cooperate with China. Foreign-owned enterprises make up around 35 percent of exhibitors.
As a global leader in green technology and the metals used in them, Fortescue has been keeping a close eye on China. Andrew Forrest, executive chairman of the Australian company, attended the expo for the first time in search of new innovations.
"(I have come) just to see where the world is going. I think China is leading the world in its electrical technology," said Forrest.
"What the expo is for me is just to show on display the genius of Chinese manufacturers, technologists and designers," he added.
The expo coincides with an official visit to China by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who led a large business delegation to China. Albanese said Australia places great importance on fostering a stable and constructive bilateral relationship with China.
Forrest, who was in the delegation, reiterated that Australian businesses hope for progress in the cooperation between the two countries.
"Doors are open. There's trust in the room. This is now China seeing Australia and Australia seeing China as great, long-term, reliable friends and business partners," said Forrest.
Other Australian business community leaders echoed the call for boosted partnership.
"China is a leader in many areas which are important for Australia, for example, in terms of its decarbonization. I think, yes, there are challenges, but if we adapt our mindset and think about how we can address the challenges, how we can make sure that we leave enough benefits, if we can do that and arrange the supply chain in a way that's really win-win," said Vaughn Barber, chair of the China-Australia Chamber of Commerce (AustCham China).
Australian enterprises seek stronger business ties at China International Supply Chain Expo
