Photo: Fiji Times

Led by Chief Minister Michael Gunner and aiming to encourage southern China government agencies, industry and businesses to “look even further south” to the Territory, the delegation will promote greater two-way trade, investment, education and tourism collaboration.

Donghai Airlines, based in Shenzhen, commenced direct flights from Shenzhen to Darwin on 30 May, 2018. Currently at two flights per week the service is expected to expand to three flights in the near future.

“Darwin is the capital of Northern Australia and now has the fastest flight and shipping times between China and Australia,” said Michael Tennant, Chief Executive Officer, Department of Trade, Business and Innovation.

“This delegation is an opportunity for both Territory and Chinese businesses to understand and explore opportunities to partner and build relationships for two-way trade (imports and exports), investment, tourism and education.

“The Territory and China share interests across a range of sectors including energy and resources, agribusiness, property, international education, major infrastructure projects and tourism.

“This is a unique opportunity and one we can’t let slip past. We are serious about developing greater business cooperation with south China and beyond.

“Our local businesses, chambers and industry associations have provided fantastic support to our efforts and the size of the delegation we are leading to Shenzhen is testament to that,” Mr Tennant said.

The delegation numbering around 80 people is made up of some of the Territory’s most influential firms as well as government and industry representatives.

The business mission to China will be the first time the Territory’s new master brand with the theme “boundless possible” has been used in an international setting after launching last week. The business delegation is coordinated by the Northern Territory Department of Trade, Business and Innovation and Darwin Major Business Group in conjunction with Austrade.