Skilled Migrant Professionals December 2015 | Page 20

Business

CHINESE OPPORTUNITIES

In The Mining Downturn
ARE WE
PREPARED?

By Professor
Ken Shao,
University of
Western Australia

T

he twenty-first century is often called the ‘Asian Century’ or the
‘China Century’, and Australia is seeking to play an important role
in this new reality. What will China look like in 20 years when
our younger generations become the main force of the labour market?
Is Australia sufficiently qualified to seize its opportunities in the China
Century? Here are three examples that can assist you to find the answer.

1. High-Technologies

1. Many say learning the Chinese language is the
most important channel to seeking opportunities in
China, however, this is unfortunately incorrect. Language is important, but knowledge about China is far
more important.

TIPS

2. A recognised degree, especially law and business, is highly
essential to a future career and successful business with China.
3. Many, if not most, of our impression of China is misconceived. A long-term learning process is very much needed

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www.smpmagazine.com.au | December 2015

In 2009, Senator Kim Carr – Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science
and Research and Minister for Higher Education – warned Australia
about underestimating the emerging global power.
‘The image of China as a country that competed solely on the basis
of low wages is outdated, and Australian companies may soon find that
Chinese engineers and scientists are their biggest competitive threats,’
she said.
China is re-emerging as a global innovation leader