All too often, China cops an unfair amount of criticism when it comes to foreign investment in New Zealand.

Rationally, this is quite bizarre, not least because our existing regulatory barriers prevent risky – or even beneficial – investments from occurring in the first place, but also because investments originating from China make up such a small portion of the total.

And yet, we still love to harp on about the concerning amount of Chinese investment in New Zealand and how harmful it is.

Which is why it was refreshing to see Martin Thomson, who has recently been announced as the new chairman of the New Zealand China Trade Association, praise the various benefits that Chinese investment brings.

The NZCTA seeks to promote and strengthen the bilateral ties between New Zealand and China. In this capacity, Mr Thomson, who is an expert in inwards FDI, the Overseas Investment Act as well as Chinese trade and investment, appears to be a wise choice.

Despite the scaremongering from the likes of Winston Peters, there is still considerable scope for greater investment opportunities for China here in New Zealand.

The most recent New Zealand Trade and Enterprise statistics reveal that, as of the year ended 31 December 2013, foreign direct investment stocks in New Zealand amounted to $102,445 million. Of this, Australia accounted for $64,044 million (62.5%), the United States at $9,123 million (8.9%), and the United Kingdom at $5,259 million (5.1%). 

China accounted for $859 million worth of FDI stocks. That is 0.8% of the total.

And it isn’t just a one-way street. 

The expansion of trade between China and New Zealand is valuable for both countries. Fonterra is a vital player in New Zealand’s export earnings, what with the company’s capacity to meet growing demand in the Chinese market. 

Of course, the public will always remain somewhat apprehensive when it comes to foreign investment in New Zealand. It is a touchy subject at the best of times. Economic engagement on an international scale is still viewed with some suspicion even on the condition that it results in benefits for New Zealanders commensurate with long-term development interests. 

Public opinion certainly won’t change overnight. There is still a great deal to be done in order to alter the perception that foreign direct investment equates to a loss of economic sovereignty.

It is worth remembering that China, like the rest of the world, must abide by the overly onerous rules and regulations of our investment legislation. Levelling criticism at one particular country of inbound investment rarely reflects genuine economic concern. It is purely xenophobic.