The West Australian Premier has taken it upon himself to fix the nation’s bruised trade relationship with China.

WA Premier Mark McGowan is heading to China, South Korea and Japan for a “reconnection tour”, prompting Ben Fordham to ask if the Premier has taken over the Foreign Minister’s portfolio.

Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg told Ben that is “certainly not” the case, but admitted “any engagement with our key trading partners is welcome”.

“He’s able to travel … where he wants to travel; I just wish the people of Western Australia could do so.

“I don’t see why, Ben, Western Australia should be any different to the other states, and open their borders at the 80 per cent vaccination rate.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview

Image: Nine News