New Zealand’s reputation for world-class education will take centre stage in Beijing this month, as Universities and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti leads a delegation of universities and tertiary providers to the China Annual Conference and Expo for International Education (CACIE).
As the Country of Honour at CACIE 2025—one of China’s largest international education events, attracting more than 35,000 participants—New Zealand will showcase the strength of its education system and the enduring partnerships that underpin its relationship with China.
“Education is a key aspect of the New Zealand–China relationship, built on enduring partnerships that have grown over the years,” said Dr Reti. “This visit will build on the positive momentum of the Prime Minister’s visit in June. We’re deepening our education links through student exchanges, institutional partnerships, and joint research that benefit both countries.”
The mission aligns with the Government’s Going for Growth agenda, which aims to expand the value of international education while fostering innovation and global collaboration. China remains New Zealand’s largest source of international students, with more than 22,000 Chinese students enrolled in the first term of 2025. According to Statistics New Zealand, Chinese learners contributed $1.43 billion to the economy in the year ending June 2025, accounting for nearly half of all services New Zealand exported to China.
“New Zealand is committed to delivering a high-quality experience for international students,” Dr Reti said. “We are proud that Chinese students consistently rate their time in New Zealand highly, especially the connections they make and the quality of their education experience.”
Beyond education, the visit also aims to strengthen bilateral ties in science, research and innovation. China is New Zealand’s fourth-largest partner for scientific co-publications and a key collaborator in research and technology development. While in Beijing, Dr Reti will meet with his Chinese counterpart in Science and Technology to explore new opportunities for cooperation.
Dr Reti will depart New Zealand on 27 October and return on 2 November, marking another milestone in the growing education and innovation partnership between the two countries.
