Australia China Business Council CEO Tom Parker on Warming Bilateral Ties

The Negotiation

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Tom Parker, National CEO of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC), for an insightful discussion on the evolving dynamics of Australia-China relations and the expanding opportunities for Australian businesses in China.

Tom begins by introducing ACBC, outlining its mission, membership, and the vital role it plays in supporting Australian businesses looking to enter or expand their presence in the Chinese market. He discusses recent positive shifts in the Australia-China relationship, including the significant impact of the Australian Prime Minister's state visit to China in November, and the recent removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian wine which marked a pivotal moment in improving trade relations.

The conversation then turns to the broader implications of these warming ties, identifying key growth opportunities for Australian companies in sectors beyond wine. Tom highlights the enduring popularity and positive reputation of Australian consumer brands in China, delving into why products from 'down under' resonate so well with Chinese consumers and which sectors are currently thriving.

From a domestic perspective, Tom shares insights into the sentiment of the Australian business community towards China, reflecting on the challenges and optimism prevalent among entrepreneurs and corporations. He also discusses the overarching message that ACBC is promoting within Australia to foster a supportive environment for bilateral cooperation.

Discussion Points:

• Overview of the Australia China Business Council and its mission
• Recent developments in Australia-China relations and their impact on trade
• The strategic significance of the Australian Prime Minister’s recent visit to China
• Growth opportunities for Australian companies in China post-tariff removal
• The enduring popularity of Australian consumer brands in China
• Sector-specific success stories of Australian brands in China
• Current sentiment among the Australian business community towards China
• Key messages from ACBC to Australian businesses