bravery pays in trade talks, vaile says
Australia will recognise China as a market economy next week so the two countries can launch free trade negotiations.
Trade Minister Mark Vaile says the time is right to start the trade talks when Prime Minister John Howard meets China's leaders in Beijing on Tuesday.
Releasing the annual trade statement in Canberra, Mr Vaile said Australia had to be in the front of the queue for a free trade deal with China.
"I firmly believe that fortune favours the brave," he said.
"We need to be brave in this regard. My view is that no matter how significant the challenges are, we must pursue this opportunity to consolidate and improve our position in the Chinese market."
