New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met U.S. President Donald Trump in South Korea on Wednesday, marking their first in-person meeting ahead of a dinner hosted by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. The encounter took place as world leaders, including those from Vietnam, Australia, Canada, Thailand, and Singapore, gathered for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
President Trump arrived in South Korea on the final leg of his Asia tour, while Luxon was in the country to represent New Zealand at the APEC leaders’ summit. Although the two leaders had previously spoken by phone, this was their first face-to-face exchange. A video circulated online showed Luxon and Trump engaging in a light conversation about New Zealand’s famous golf courses before the formal dinner began.
The meeting comes at a time of shifting trade relations between the United States and New Zealand. Despite not being formal allies, the two countries have strengthened their partnership in recent years through diplomatic and economic cooperation. However, Washington’s recent decision to impose a 15% tariff on New Zealand imports—higher than the rate applied to neighboring Australia—has strained trade ties. The tariff hike has raised concerns among New Zealand exporters, particularly in key industries such as meat, dairy, and wine.
When asked about the issue, Luxon declined to confirm whether tariffs were discussed but emphasized that “the U.S. administration is very, very clear on New Zealand’s position regarding tariffs,” according to state-owned Radio New Zealand.
The brief meeting highlights New Zealand’s efforts to maintain strong international relations while addressing growing challenges in trade and regional diplomacy.