Summary
China has been New Zealand's largest trading partner for years, with two-way trade worth more than NZ$42 billion in 2025, Ambassador Wang Xiaolong wrote in the New Zealand Herald's Silk Road special edition. Within six months of the visa facilitation taking effect last November,
arrivals from China rose more than 40 per cent, each spending an average of NZ$5, 800,
adding almost NZ$210 million to the economy. Meanwhile, 64 per cent of New Zealand businesses are highly optimistic about the Chinese market.
Commentary
The relationship is anchored in primary exports, and while dairy giant Fonterra dominates, smaller dairy, meat and fruit exporters are also reaping the benefits of tariff cuts under the upgraded free trade agreement. Niche lines such as organic and grass-fed products offer first-mover opportunities. Tourism has also responded strongly to visa facilitation, with arrivals up 40 per cent in six months and average spend of NZ$5,800, a clear gain for hotels, restaurants and other local services.
Yet heavy reliance on one market carries inherent risks; a global downturn or rising trade protectionism could soften demand. Even with 64 per cent of New Zealand businesses expressing strong optimism, diversification and supply-chain resilience remain prudent priorities for smaller operators.
Keywords: bilateral trade, visa facilitation, tourism, economic confidence, Wang Xiaolong
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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