Invest and Trade Western Australia and Tourism Western Australia have celebrated the launch of China Eastern Airline’s special non-stop service between Shanghai and Perth.

Fourteen inbound flights are scheduled over the Chinese New Year period between 20 January to 18 February 2024, with the potential to explore options for a permanent direct aviation connection with China.

Western Australia’s Trade and Investment Commissioner for Greater China, Juan Lu, emceed the event, with attendees hearing from Western Australia’s Premier Roger Cook, Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism Rita Saffioti, China’s Consul-General to Perth Long Dingbin, and John Han, Deputy General Manager for China Eastern Airlines.

With the announcement of China Eastern Airlines' special service, the Western Australian Government has now secured or re-launched direct flights with 18 destinations since borders re-opened last year.

Premier Cook has welcomed the news, citing the direct flights as a major boost to Western Australia’s economy.

"Direct flights to and from China not only benefit our tourism sector, but open up significant opportunities for international education, agriculture, and business exchanges,” said Premier Cook.

China is Western Australia’s largest trading partner valued at $158.1 billion, with Chinese visitor expenditure totalling $78 million in 202-23.

China Eastern Airlines' Shanghai fares will soon go on sale and services are subject to regulatory approvals.

 For more information on the special service, visit the China Eastern Airlines webpage.

 To learn more about how Invest and Trade Western Australia can help facilitate business opportunities between Western Australia and China, contact our team at investandtrade@jtsi.wa.gov.au.

Published on: 21 December 2023