On 21 March 2025, AustCham China hosted an Executive Lunch & Briefing featuring Christine Holgate, Group CEO of Team Global Express.
On March 21, 2025, AustCham China hosted an Executive Lunch & Briefing in Beijing, featuring Christine Holgate, Group CEO of Team Global Express (TGE). The event brought together business leaders, policymakers, and AustCham China members to discuss the evolving Australia-China trade relationship and the opportunities for collaboration in an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy.
Private Briefing and Bilateral Trade Discussions
The event began with an exclusive briefing for AustCham China members, where Christine Holgate, joined by His Excellency Scott Dewar, Australian Ambassador to China, led discussions on bilateral trade dynamics. The session highlighted key economic trends, market opportunities, and strategies for businesses navigating the complex trade environment between Australia and China.
Keynote Address: Strengthening Trade and Innovation
During the main Executive Lunch session, Christine Holgate delivered a compelling keynote speech focusing on the importance of adaptability, strategic partnerships, and resilience in business. She emphasized that the Australia-China trade relationship is not just about economic transactions but about building trust, fostering innovation, and leveraging digital advancements such as e-commerce and supply chain modernization.
“Trade is not just about the selling of goods – it is about relationships. It is about trust, respect, and shared dreams.”
Holgate shared insights from TGE’s ongoing efforts to expand partnerships in China, particularly in the fast-growing e-commerce sector. She noted that China’s domestic e-commerce market, now valued at $2 trillion, presents significant opportunities for Australian businesses looking to scale globally.
“E-commerce gives both Chinese and Australian businesses an opportunity to expand into their mutual lucrative markets, providing more choice and often at significantly better prices.”
Additionally, she recounted her personal experiences that shaped her deep respect for Chinese culture and business practices, emphasizing that sustainable trade relationships require long-term investment, mutual trust, and cultural understanding.
Panel Discussion and Q&A
Following her address, Holgate joined AustCham China Chair Vaughn Barber for a moderated Q&A session. The discussion covered various topics, including risk mitigation strategies for Australian companies operating in China, the role of digital marketplaces, and how businesses can better communicate their China strategies to stakeholders.
“Instead of being fearful, we need to explain that these digital marketplaces offer Australian businesses unparalleled access to a vast worldwide consumer base.”
Holgate underscored the importance of staying proactive in an evolving market landscape, urging Australian businesses to embrace digital transformation rather than fear competition from Chinese platforms like Temu and TikTok Shop. She highlighted the success of Blackmores, where leveraging China’s e-commerce ecosystem led to significant growth, demonstrating the potential for Australian businesses to thrive in this market.
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The event reinforced the importance of strengthening Australia-China business ties through innovation, collaboration, and strategic engagement. AustCham China expressed its gratitude to Christine Holgate and the TGE team for their invaluable insights and to all attendees for their participation.
“The longer both Australian & Chinese businesses promote mutual trust, strengthen communication, and seek common development, the more confidence we will have in one another.”
AustCham China extends its gratitude to Christine Holgate and the TGE team for their time and input, as well as to all guests who attended the Executive Lunch & Briefing.
We look forward to seeing you all at our next AustCham China event.