On 20 June, Vaughn Barber, Chair of the China-Australia Chamber of Commerce (AustCham China), spoke with SFC Markets and Finance about the 2025 Doing Business in China (DBIC) Report and the outlook for bilateral trade. Despite global economic uncertainty, Barber reaffirmed that Australian businesses are not retreating from China, they are doubling down.
The DBIC Report shows that nearly 70% of Australian firms rank China among their top three global investment destinations over the next three years. In 2024, more than 75% of foreign firms in China reported profitability, up from 58% the previous year, while 51% saw year-on-year revenue growth and 46% increased their investment in China.
Barber noted that this renewed momentum is underpinned by strong complementarities in sectors such as agribusiness, clean energy, and critical minerals, areas aligned with both countries’ strategic goals. He described a shift toward “innovation-driven, high-value, and low-carbon” collaboration, with joint opportunities in green hydrogen, electric vehicles, and biopharmaceuticals.
Marking the 10th anniversary of the China–Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA), Barber highlighted its impact in doubling bilateral trade to A$325 billion and enhancing resilience through tariff relief and market access improvements.
He also addressed rising U.S. tariffs and their ripple effects, noting they have created uncertainty but also opened windows for Australian exporters to fill market gaps—especially in agriculture. However, he cautioned that intensified global competition requires agility and strategic adaptation.
Barber emphasized strong consumer interest in Chinese EVs and the role of Australia’s “Future Made in Australia” policy in encouraging bilateral investment in clean energy supply chains and advanced manufacturing.
“China is not just a market of interest—it’s a core pillar in the strategic playbook for Australian companies looking to grow sustainably amid global headwinds,” he said.
Watch SFC Markets and Finance’s full interview [link] to learn how Australian firms are leveraging China’s future-focused economy to drive long-term success.