The New Zealand International Business Forum (NZIBF) welcomes the Government’s plans to expand export markets in today’s announcement of an updated Business Growth Agenda.

“Trade brings you the car you drive, the clothes you wear, the medicine you take, the device you use and quite likely the job that puts food on your table. But the trade environment is changing. Government and business need to stay ahead of the game.”

The seven priority actions described in the Business Growth Agenda aim to help us do just that”, said NZIBF Executive Director Stephen Jacobi.

The Business Growth Agenda’s revised “Building Export Markets” chapter was released by Ministers in Auckland this morning. The BGA describes how the Government intends to increase the ratio of exports to GDP to 40 percent by 2025. The overall focus is on creating more internationally connected business by growing markets, adding value and diversifying our export base.

The New Zealand International Business Forum has been active in dialogue with the Government to help set the strategic direction of the BGA.

“The Government is aware that it cannot achieve the BGA goals without the involvement of business and the support of the wider community. The document outlines the strategic direction the Government intends to take and the performance measures for which it is willing to be held accountable. This is commendable transparency which merits close attention as the actions are implemented”.

Mr Jacobi said the seven priority actions included an ambitious free trade strategy and maximising the benefits of existing FTAs.

The NZIBF’s priorities include completing a robust and meaningful Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), upgrading the NZ China FTA, initiating new trade negotiations with the European Union as well as improving the environment for investment and competitiveness back home, said Mr Jacobi.