Chinese Carrier Expands Australia Network Amid Strengthening Trade Ties

Shenzhen Airlines has launched its first direct flight to Melbourne, marking a significant expansion of Australia’s air connectivity with southern China. The new route, operated by Airbus A330 aircraft three times weekly, adds over 90,000 seats annually between Melbourne and China. This development comes as Australia-China trade relations continue to strengthen, with the two countries accounting for 25% and 30% of global goods and services trade in 2024, respectively. The Victorian government’s Industry Partnerships Program has secured funding for destination marketing, which will benefit tourism operators and local exporters seeking access to key markets in southern China.