China warns Australia against taking back control of key port in Darwin

In January 2026, China's ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, warned against Canberra's potential move to reclaim control of Port Darwin. Landbridge Group, a Chinese-owned company, has held a 99-year lease on the port since 2015. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged to return the port to Australian control, citing national interest. Xiao criticized this as unethical and stated Beijing would "take measures" to protect Landbridge's interests if Australia alters the lease agreement. Albanese reiterated his intention to return the port to Australian control. The original lease agreement was intended to revitalize the economy of Australia's Northern Territory.

China has stated it will take action to protect its interests if Australia moves to reclaim control of the Darwin Port, which is currently leased to Chinese firm Landbridge Group. Chinese Ambassador Xiao Qian indicated that Beijing would intervene to safeguard the "legitimate rights" of the company if Australia forces a sale. The port's 99-year lease, granted in 2015, has been a point of contention, particularly after Prime Minister Albanese pledged during his campaign to regain ownership. Xiao emphasized the need for Australia to properly manage the situation to demonstrate its openness to Chinese investment. The statement comes amid improving relations between the two countries.

China's ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, warned that the Australian government's plans to force the Chinese company Landbridge to sell its 99-year lease on the Port of Darwin could jeopardize future trade growth and prompt intervention from Beijing. The statement follows the Albanese government's consideration of reversing the lease due to national security concerns raised by both the Labor and Coalition parties before the election. Landbridge, a Chinese-owned company, acquired the lease for the port in Darwin, Australia. The ambassador's comments highlight the potential diplomatic and economic ramifications of Australia's policy shift regarding the port's ownership.