WACCC Welcomes Consul General to Strengthen WA-China Cooperation

The Western Australian Chinese Chamber of Commerce was honoured to welcome Ms Fu Lihua, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Perth, to the Chamber for a meaningful and forward-looking discussion on the enduring relationship between China and Western Australia.

The visit provided an opportunity to share the Chamber’s history, membership and current initiatives, including the establishment of the WACCC Foundation and the Business Alliance Council, which brings together Chinese trade and business associations across Western Australia. The meeting reflected the Chamber’s longstanding commitment to serving as a bridge between business communities and fostering deeper economic and cultural ties between our two regions.

New Opportunities in a Renewed Partnership

In her remarks, Consul General Fu reflected on the renewed momentum in China–Australia relations and the deep economic ties between China and Western Australia, particularly in sectors such as resources and agriculture. She noted that, despite global challenges, China achieved average annual growth of 5.4 per cent over the past five years, with GDP now exceeding RMB 140 trillion (approximately USD 20 trillion) and contributing more than 30 per cent of global economic growth.

Looking ahead, Consul General Fu highlighted that China’s 15th Five-Year Plan will create new opportunities for cooperation, with a focus on smart energy, green transformation and industrial upgrading. These priorities align closely with Western Australia’s strengths in resources, innovation and sustainable development, creating fertile ground for deeper commercial collaboration.

The Importance of People-to-People Exchange

Beyond trade and investment, Consul General Fu emphasised the enduring value of people-to-people connections in strengthening mutual understanding. Expanded direct flights between Perth and China, long-standing scholarship programmes and more accessible visa arrangements are helping to make business, educational and community engagement more accessible than ever.

Consul General Fu encouraged WACCC to continue playing its important role as a bridge between China and Western Australia, promoting practical cooperation and strengthening the relationships that underpin long-term partnership.

Building on Four Decades of Service

For nearly four decades, WACCC has supported Chinese-Australian businesses and contributed to the growth of commercial and cultural ties between Western Australia and China. The meeting was a timely reminder that the most enduring partnerships are built not only on economic opportunity, but also on trust, dialogue and shared ambition.

We thank Consul General Fu for her visit and for sharing her insights, and we look forward to continuing to foster meaningful connections that support trade, investment and cultural exchange between China and Western Australia.