South Australia Trade and Investment, Minister Joe Szakacs will be visiting China for five days to focus on unlocking trade opportunities with China in the wake of all trade restrictions being lifted.
The latest figures come as South Australia’s export growth into China continues to advance with the signing of a $40 million export deal with China Eastern Airlines Cold Chain Logistics Ltd this week.
The agreement with China Airlines is important given the growth focus of securing flights into South Australia and the economic impact it will provide for the state.
The deal is pivotal, especially for the state’s seafood and wine industries. In February 2025, seafood exports to China grew by almost 500 per cent to $63.3m, which was led by $47.1m of Southern Rock Lobsters exports just two months since the trade barrier was lifted.
In the wine industry, wine exports reached a new post-tariff record of $790m.
“While our Seafood Export Growth Program and China Wine Re-engagement Support Program have made incredible strides in reconnecting South Australian businesses with the China market, but we cannot rest on those achievements,” says Joe.
During his visit to China, Minister Szakacs will meet with business leaders in the food and wine sectors, including major buyers, e-commerce platforms and distribution centres.
Minister Szakacs will also be engaging with high-ranking Chinese government officials and education institutions to further strengthen trade, investment and cultural links. It will include engagements to strengthen the long-standing, bilateral relationship with South Australia’s sister Province, Shandong.
“My focus is to ensure that our growers, producers and businesses can capitalise on every available opportunity with our largest trading partner,” Joe added.
