New Zealand Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay is interviewed by Shenzhen Daily on Friday. Lin Jianping
Shenzhen plays a pivotal role in the burgeoning economic relationship between New Zealand and China, offering huge potential for New Zealand companies, according to New Zealand Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, who visited the city Friday.
His visit was part of a larger delegation that included some 70 companies, many of which exhibited at the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.
"The reason of our visit to Guangdong Province, particularly Shenzhen, is because of its importance to New Zealand and to New Zealand companies," McClay told Shenzhen Daily during an exclusive interview Friday.
McClay highlighted the city's importance as a gateway for New Zealand's high-quality food exports. Shenzhen's strategic location as a major port and airport has facilitated the smooth flow of goods between the two countries.
McClay was also impressed by the architectural collaboration between New Zealand and Shenzhen. One example is the Marisfrolg headquarters building, which was designed by New Zealand company Architecture van Brandenburg.
He also noted growing cooperation in various fields, including medical research between institutions and local partners to find solutions to cancers and other illnesses.
"We need to find more ways for businesses in both directions to form these relationships. There's huge potential here for New Zealand companies," McClay said.
"It's a very, very beautiful city — one of the most beautiful I've visited anywhere in the world," McClay said about his first visit to Shenzhen. "I'm quite impressed by what I've seen here."
The minister was particularly struck by Shenzhen's vibrant, hardworking, and dynamic population. He drew parallels between Shenzhen and Christchurch, New Zealand's "Garden City." The two cities have maintained friendly exchange relations since 2015.
McClay also underlined the importance of cultural and educational exchanges, noting that many young Shenzhen natives have studied in New Zealand, returning with valuable expertise and lasting friendships.
"We want more young New Zealanders to come and visit Shenzhen, as beautiful as it is, and to learn, just as we welcome more young people from here to New Zealand. That's how we create those enduring bonds and continue to grow our economic relationship," McClay said.