Summary
On 25 June 2026, Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wang Xiaolong delivered a keynote speech at the 12th China Business Summit in Auckland, emphasising steadfastness amid change and win-win outcomes through cooperation.Ambassador Wang noted that China's economy will maintain steady growth, shifting towards high-quality development.2026 marks the start of the '15th Five-Year Plan', with全社会R&D spending growing at an average annual rate of over 7%.
China holds about 60% of global AI patents, and the digital economy's core industries account for over 10.5% of GDP. China remains committed to peaceful development, firmly safeguarding sovereignty, security, and development interests, opposing 'Taiwan independence' and external interference, while demonstrating global responsibility, such as implementing zero tariffs on all African countries with diplomatic ties. Ambassador Wang called on China and New Zealand to meet each other halfway and deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership, citing highly complementary economies and vast cooperation potential.
Over 50 years of diplomatic relations, the bilateral relationship has long been ahead of other Western countries with China. Today, common interests are even greater, particularly in technological innovation and green transformation. Chinese electric vehicles are now popular in New Zealand, offering affordable and quality choices.
Ambassador Wang stressed that the more complex the environment, the more valuable trustworthy partnerships become, and mutual benefit between China and New Zealand will inject stability.
Commentary
Ambassador Wang Xiaolong's speech sends several key signals for New Zealand's small and medium-sized enterprises. First, China's shift to high-quality development, with rising R&D spending, opens opportunities in AI, digital economy, and more. New Zealand businesses that find collaboration points with Chinese firms in smart technology, green energy, or high-end manufacturing could gain early-mover advantage.
For instance, in EV support services, smart agriculture solutions, or low-carbon environmental technologies, China and New Zealand have clear complementarities. Second, Ambassador Wang clearly stated that the China-New Zealand relationship has a solid foundation and China is willing to deepen cooperation. This helps reduce trade policy uncertainty, allowing SMEs to explore the Chinese market or introduce Chinese technology with more confidence.
However, note that China is accelerating indigenous innovation and may reduce dependence on foreign imports in some areas; New Zealand firms should highlight differentiated advantages such as brand reputation, environmental certification, or specialty products. In addition, green transformation is a priority for China; New Zealand has rich experience in clean energy and sustainable agriculture, making it possible to promote relevant products to China's mid-to-high-end consumers. Overall, a good partnership provides stable expectations, but proactive alignment with China's industrial upgrading needs is necessary to avoid homogeneous competition.
Keywords: Wang Xiaolong, China Business Summit, China-New Zealand relations, win-win cooperation, new quality productive forces, green transformation, digital economy, 15th Five-Year Plan
Source: Embassy of the People's Republic of China in New Zealand – Bilateral Relations
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.
