• China is WA's largest market for international student enrolments; sixth largest for international visitors
• About 90 per cent of WA's merchandise exports in 2017-18 were to Asia 

Newly appointed Asian Engagement Minister Peter Tinley will address Chinese Business Council leaders in Western Australia at the Chung Wah Association offices in Northbridge tomorrow evening (Monday January 21).

The speech, Mr Tinley's first official engagement since being appointed as the Minister for Asian Engagement, will acknowledge the importance of WA's relationship with China and emphasise business opportunities.

The State's trade with the Asian giant has grown exponentially since 2006-07 - to the point that merchandise exports to China were valued at $61.5 billion in 2017-18.

Chinese business councils have a vast range of resources including market intelligence, business networks and cultural knowledge that offer a significant opportunity for WA to boost its economic growth potential.

Forecasts predict that within a generation, Asian markets will dominate the global economy. China is expected to be the world's biggest economy by 2030, and the top four will include India and Indonesia.

Comments attributed to Asian Engagement Minister Peter Tinley:

"In order to compete successfully on the world stage, WA must do business in the world's fastest growing and most competitive economic region.

"My role as Asian Engagement Minister is to support the State's business sector to leverage economic opportunities and drive our trade relationship with China to greater levels.

"Building strong, resilient, sustainable and mutually beneficial networks and relationships with the Chinese diaspora community in WA will play a critical role in helping to ensure our future.

"To that end, the McGowan Government is focused on boosting growth in three key areas: increasing WA's exports, attracting Asian investment and diversifying the State's economy."

Minister's office - 6552 5300