Summary
On 24 June 2026, Premier Li Qiang attended a symposium with business representatives at the 2026 Summer Davos Forum in Dalian. Li noted that the international community increasingly recognises that trade wars and tariff wars have no winners, and that open cooperation is the trend of the times. China does not deliberately pursue a trade surplus and is willing to import quality products from all countries to promote balanced trade.
China's industrial competitiveness stems from its comprehensive system, vast market and sound innovation ecosystem; industrial subsidies strictly comply with WTO rules and treat domestic and foreign capital equally. Li stated that China's economy is moving towards high-quality and innovative development, bringing new opportunities for enterprises from all countries in areas such as market, manufacturing and infrastructure. The Chinese government will continue to expand opening up in the services sector and implement national treatment for foreign investment.
About 150 business representatives from more than 30 countries and regions attended, expressing optimism about China's development prospects and willingness to root in China and share opportunities.
Commentary
For New Zealand small and medium enterprise owners, Premier Li Qiang's remarks send positive signals. China's commitment to open cooperation and its lack of deliberate pursuit of a trade surplus suggest that New Zealand's quality agricultural products (e.g. dairy, honey) and high-end manufactured goods may gain fairer market access. The attendance of around 150 international business representatives indicates global capital's continued confidence in China, but competition will also intensify.
Opportunities: rising consumer demand diversification in China could create new growth points for niche New Zealand products; digital and intelligent upgrades in China's infrastructure open collaboration windows for New Zealand tech firms. Risks: locally branded competitors in China are becoming stronger, and while industrial subsidies are claimed to be fair, hidden barriers may still exist in practice. It is recommended that New Zealand businesses focus on niche market differentiation and actively utilise China's official foreign investment service mechanisms, such as national treatment implementation, to proactively communicate needs.
In conclusion: the symposium has drawn considerable international attention; New Zealand enterprises should seize the window of goodwill signalled by senior officials to accelerate their presence in China, but must prepare for more intense local competition.
Keywords: Li Qiang, Davos Forum, opening up, trade balance, industrial competitiveness, China market, business environment, national treatment for foreign investment, high-quality development
Source: Embassy of the People's Republic of China in New Zealand
Disclaimer: This article is compiled from publicly available sources for general information only. The analysis and commentary are editorial opinions. MiDeer Observer does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Readers should seek independent professional advice before relying on this content, or contact us for more information.
