On 8 June, AustCham China’s 2025 Doing Business in China report was cited as evidence of continued optimism among Australian firms operating in China, despite intensifying geopolitical tensions and ongoing U.S.– China trade frictions.

Nearly 70% of the 850 foreign companies surveyed listed China as one of their top three global investment destinations reinforcing a growing sentiment that China remains a vital market for long-term growth, even as global supply chains shift and regulatory landscapes evolve.

James Laurenceson, Director of the Australia-China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney, noted that “China’s policy environment, in some respects, offers more certainty than that of the United States.” He highlighted China’s resilience amid global uncertainty and encouraged a more strategic, balanced approach to managing national security and economic engagement.

The article also noted that Australia’s agricultural exporters are benefiting from evolving U.S-China trade dynamics. Amid tariff uncertainty, Chinese buyers are increasingly turning to Australian beef, barley, and dairy. The China-Australia Free Trade Agreement, with its low average tariffs and zero tariffs on Chinese imports to Australia, continues to support robust bilateral trade.

“Banning all Chinese investment in critical resources doesn’t necessarily equate to safeguarding national security,” said Laurenceson, calling for a more strategic balance.

Despite policy frictions, AustCham China CEO Tian Zhang remained optimistic: “We’ve moved beyond the most difficult stage. The road ahead still holds vast potential for cooperation.”

Read the full Zui Xi Ao article [link] to explore Australian businesses are adapting and thriving in the China market.