CONDITION OF CHINA

Hokitika Guardian, 30 January 1930, Page 8

CONDITION OF CHINA

A CONSUL’S OPINION’S. POSSIBILITIES OF TRADE WITH -e DOMINION. AUCKLAND, January 27. The belief'that the nationalist movemen in China has been responsible for wonderful progress in held by Mr F. T. Sung, Consul-General for the republic of China in Australia. Mr Sung is a passenger to Sydney by the Niagara, which arrived at Auckland to-day. He lias been to Suva on business. “China is rapidly settling down, and in the opinion of many is at the dawn of one of the greatest eras in her history,” Mr Sung said. “Alucli is still made of the internal strife and civil war, but this is purfely regional, and is more or less opposing fractions. The Nationalist Government is gathering strength, and is making steady progress toward its aim of a united China. My country is certain'y one of the greatest potential markets in the world. There is 1 such a '.luge population to feed and clothe that an extensive import trade is absolutely necessary, and there is no reason why- the most lucrative tirade should not be established between China and New Zealand. At present we buy large quantities of wool and dairy produce from, Australia, and I am certain-we could also find a market for New Zealand’s primary products. Already we know of their high quality and their enviable reputation in the world’s markets, but I think a direct shipping service is an essential for the “ establishment of an export trade to China.” Mr Sung ’said that China was embracing western civilisation a little more slowly than other Eastern nations, but the influence fostered by the missionary schools was growing steadily, and proving beneficial. It had played its part in awakening the nationalist spirit in the country. Christianity was also gaining considerable 1 ground. Perhaps it was the growth of western, ideas that was influencing China in its efforts to expand its import trade. For instance, more wool was being imported every year, although it was brought through Japan. Some of it came from New Zealand, and here again lie thought a direct shipping, servee would mean greatly increased trade. China could also import large quantities of fruit, such as apples and peaches. “Russian influence in China has definitely waned,” said Air Sung. “Three of four years ago the Russians were trying to control Chinese politics, and were driving the country steadily toward ruin. The Nationalist Government recognised that Soviet propaganda. was a bar to progress, and determined to leave Russia very severely alone. The recent fighting over the Chinese-Eastern railway . came about because the Government is determined to destroy all Russian influences. Our relations with Great Britain have never been more friendly, and we welcome British business men to the country.’’