独家专访新西兰驻华大使：年贸易增速超14%，中新关系行稳致远

Core Insights - The trade relationship between China and New Zealand has shown strong vitality and potential, with bilateral trade growing at an average rate of over 14% since the signing of the free trade agreement in 2008 [1][6][11] - New Zealand has become China's largest trading partner, with approximately one-fifth of New Zealand's exports going to China, establishing a solid foundation for the bilateral relationship [1][6][11] Trade Relations - In 2024, the bilateral trade volume reached $20.15 billion, with China exporting $7.74 billion and importing $12.42 billion from New Zealand [2] - The trade balance has remained slightly in favor of New Zealand, which exports high-quality food and beverages to China while importing industrial products [2][6] - The trade volume for the first half of 2025 reached $10.85 billion, marking a year-on-year increase of 6.3% [2] Economic Cooperation - The economic structures of China and New Zealand are highly complementary, creating a unique win-win model [2][6] - The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has facilitated trade by lowering tariffs and unifying trade rules, which is expected to enhance the utilization of these benefits by enterprises [3][10] Educational Exchange - As of August 2024, there were 25,175 Chinese students studying in New Zealand, a 5% increase from the previous year, with 58% enrolled in eight comprehensive universities [3][13] - New Zealand's education system is attractive due to its quality, safety, employment prospects, and competitive costs, making it a popular choice for Chinese students [13][14] Tourism - In the previous year, approximately 248,000 Chinese tourists visited New Zealand, making China the third-largest tourism market for the country [15] - New Zealand is enhancing its appeal to Chinese tourists by simplifying visa processes and increasing direct flight routes [16][15] Climate Cooperation - Sustainable development cooperation is a key focus for both countries, with New Zealand recognizing China's rapid advancements in renewable energy as beneficial for achieving global emission reduction goals [4][19] - New Zealand is committed to the Paris Agreement and seeks to strengthen cooperation with China in addressing climate challenges [19][20]