The Premier of the Australian State of New South Wales, Mr Morris Iemma, will undertake an extensive trade promotion mission to China from Friday, May 16.

Mr Iemma, who will be accompanied by leading business, tourism and university representatives, said the aim of the mission is to open up new opportunities between China and New South Wales.

"I will be promoting the commercial, education and tourism strengths of Australia's leading State, New South Wales, to government and business leaders in the major economic centres of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing.

"Sydney, the capital city of New South Wales, is Australia's business and financial centre with much to offer Chinese companies interested in doing business in Australia.

"New South Wales has a strong and diverse economy and is Australia's leading State.

"We are a reliable supplier of coal and minerals to China, but also have strengths in agriculture, creative industries, financial services, infrastructure and construction, logistics and transaction services, education and tourism.

"China is our top trading partner, but there are many opportunities for us to expand our business and cultural ties.

"We welcome Chinese investment in New South Wales and visitors to our State."

In Guangzhou, Mr Iemma will attend the Joint Economic Meeting, which is an important part of the sister state-province relationship with Guangdong.

"Guangdong and New South Wales have been sister-states for 29 years and this gives us a solid foundation on which to build partnerships."

Premier Iemma is leading a delegation of 34 companies, 10 universities, several community organisations and government departments from New South Wales.

Companies taking part in the mission include Events New South Wales, International Wine Stage, Leighton Holdings, PTW Architects and Suntech.