Sino-Australian FTA

    LEGISLATION surrounding the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) is expected to be fast-tracked through Australia’s Senate this week, after Opposition Trade Minister endorsed the deal as a step towards “prosperity.”

    Speaking in the Senate yesterday, Shadow Trade Minister Penny Wong said legislation required in order for the deal to be approved in Australia would simultaneously protect Australian workers and conditions while also “delivering jobs” and scope for businesses to grow in the future. Wong said Labor’s repeals — passed through the lower house last month — did not affect the broader details of the agreement with China, but merely ensures a safeguard for Australian workers.

    BMW new China chief

    BMW named Olaf Kastner to oversee the German carmaker’s business in China, where it has been losing some ground to Mercedes in recent months.

    Kastner will take over the job Dec. 1, replacing Karsten Engel, who is returning to Germany, BMW said yesterday. Kastner was previously head of the BMW Brilliance Automotive joint venture, which makes vehicles for BMW and its Chinese partner Brilliance China Auto Holding.