The China–Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) entered into force on 20 December 2015, providing Australian businesses with significant opportunities in China.
The Agreement builds on Australia’s strong and successful commercial relationship with China, securing market access and providing outcomes across key sectors, including goods, services, and investment.
China is Australia’s largest export market. Through ChAFTA, Australian exporters enjoy a competitive advantage over other major suppliers, with tariffs eliminated across a range of agricultural goods. For Australian service providers, the Agreement provides access to priority services sectors in China and promotes growth of Chinese investment into Australia.
Australia’s economic partnership with China is further strengthened by its joint membership in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP).
Key Outcomes and Benefits of ChAFTA
- Tariff Elimination: By 1 January 2029, 99 per cent of Australia's goods exports to China will enter duty-free.
- Services: China has made market access commitments in a range of sectors such as financial, legal, construction, education, telecommunications, health and aged care, environmental and tourism.
- Resources & Energy: Zero tariffs on key commodities such as iron ore, gold, crude petroleum oils and liquefied natural gas providing greater certainty for Australian exporters.
- Mobility: Enhanced access and certainty on entry and length of stay for skilled service providers, investors and business visitors.
- Professional services: Improved mechanisms for working towards mutual recognition of professional qualifications and registration, including through the establishment of a framework to support mutual recognition arrangements.
- Tourism: A Work and Holiday Arrangement (WHA) allowing Chinese work and holiday makers to travel and work in Australia, increasing tourism particularly in rural Australia.
Helpful Links
- FTA Portal – Access the latest information about Australia’s in-force Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). This user-friendly site helps you compare agreements including tariffs, Harmonised System Codes (HS Codes), rules of origin requirements, and find the best fit for your business needs.
- Australian Border Force – Find details on customs, import requirements, advance rulings and customs duties.
- Austrade – Explore export opportunities and support for Australian exporters.
- Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry – For market access issues for agricultural products including biosecurity and implementing policies for agricultural traceability.
Contact Us
For more information, please email: fta@dfat.gov.au