On 19 March, 2025, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Brisbane Dr Ruan Zongze paid a courtesy call to Minister of Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Roslyn Bates. They had friendly exchanges on strengthening economic and trade relations between China and Queensland. Deputy Consul-General of the Chinese Consulate-General Mr Yang Chenqi and other consuls were present.

Dr Ruan said that China and Australia are both advocates and beneficiaries of free trade. Last year, the total trade in goods between China and Queensland exceeded A$40 billion, fully demonstrating the resilience and potential of the mutually beneficial and win-win bilateral economic relationship. Recently Two Sessions in China proposed that Chinese economy will continue to maintain a growth target of about 5 percent in 2025, which will bring more opportunities for China-Australia and China-Queensland economic and trade cooperation.

Minister Bates highly appreciated the achievements of bilateral cooperation. She stressed that Queensland values its economic and trade relations with China, and is willing to create a sound business environment for Chinese companies in Queensland. The government welcomes more Chinese investment in Queensland in the future.