CANBERRA, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- The China International Import Expo (CIIE) serves as an important platform for strengthening ties between South Australian exporters and Chinese buyers, distributors and industry stakeholders, South Australian Minister for State Development Chris Picton has said.
In a recent written interview with Xinhua, Picton said connections established through the CIIE over the past five years have helped secure many strong commercial deals and raised awareness of South Australian produce and brands among Chinese buyers, distributors and consumers.
Nearly 40 South Australian companies will showcase their products at this year's CIIE, including wine, spirits, meat, yoghurt, seafood and honey, he said.
Picton said the South Australian pavilion at the 2026 CIIE is designed to facilitate practical business engagement. It will feature a functional wine and spirits bar, product displays, tastings and live cooking demonstrations to support business matching, media opportunities, live-streaming and digital content creation.
"South Australian wine will also be integrated throughout the pavilion, complementing the food and seafood experiences and bringing together the diversity of South Australia's premium produce to create a complete South Australian showcase," he said.
Speaking of the importance of the Chinese market, Picton said China is an important source of investment, supporting economic growth, employment and export opportunities across the state.
"China's evolving consumer preferences and increasingly sophisticated retail and distribution channels are creating new opportunities for South Australian exporters, particularly in premium food, wine and beverages," he said.
He added that South Australia is well positioned to capitalize on these opportunities, supported by its industry capabilities and natural resources.
"We see opportunities to deepen cooperation in renewable energy and mining, alongside continued growth in education and tourism," he said.
On market access and the business environment, Picton welcomed efforts to facilitate business activities and improve market access, saying such measures would help South Australian companies respond to changing demand and expand their presence in the Chinese market.
To further strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, South Australia maintains a network of representative offices in China, including its state development office in Shanghai and offices in Jinan, Guangzhou and Hong Kong, he said.
These offices facilitate business introductions and matching, helping companies expand into the South Australian or Chinese markets, while providing Chinese buyers with access to advice and connections in South Australia's key growth sectors.
Picton also highlighted growing air connectivity, saying additional direct flights have created new opportunities for business, freight and tourism.
"This year, we were thrilled to welcome the commencement of China Eastern Airlines' service from Shanghai, as well as an increase in China Southern Airlines' flights from Guangzhou," he said.
Commenting on the role of the CIIE in promoting international economic and trade cooperation, Picton stressed the importance of international trade in supporting economic growth, business confidence and resilient global supply chains.
"International trade is essential to economic growth, business confidence and resilient global supply chains," he said.
"South Australia welcomes initiatives such as CIIE that promote international cooperation, strengthen commercial partnerships and create mutually beneficial economic opportunities," he added.■
