Stephen Jacobi, NZIBF Executive Director, speaks to the Confederation of Indian Industry Partnership Summit in New Delhi about The Future of Multilateralism.
Business Forum Ready To Help Adapt APEC In 2021

Media release, 30 June 2020
“The times require us all to adapt” said Malcolm Bailey, Chair of the New Zealand International Business Forum (NZIBF), reacting today to the announcement that New Zealand’s chairing of APEC in 2021 would be done on virtual basis.
“We naturally share the disappointment of others that because of the impact of Covid-19 we will not be able to host APEC Economic Leaders, Ministers and senior business people in New Zealand next year. Moving to virtual meetings will allow New Zealand to showcase our country through the use of smart technologies – this in itself is a new digital opportunity.
“APEC has a vital role to play in securing the economic recovery post Covid. The bigger picture is that New Zealand can play a key role in responding to this challenge, especially as over 70 percent of our exports go to APEC economies. It is vital that APEC’s work continues”, said Mr Bailey
NZIBF works closely with the three Members of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC), providing policy advice and support.
“We stand ready to help adapt ABAC processes to ensure that the business voice is heard and to work with the Government to deliver a successful hosting year” concluded Mr Bailey.
For further information:
Malcolm Bailey, Chair, cell 021 741 165
Stephen Jacobi, Executive Director, cell 0294 725 502
About NZIBF (www.tradeworks.org.nz)
NZIBF is a business organisation which aims to generate wealth for New Zealanders by helping ensure that New Zealand enterprises are fully integrated and engaged in the global economy and New Zealand’s global competitive position is maximised. NZIBF was established in 2007 and has worked in support of ABAC since 2009.
About ABAC (www.abaconline.org)
ABAC was created by APEC Leaders in 1995 to be the primary voice of business in APEC. Each economy has three members who are appointed by their respective Leaders.
About ABAC New Zealand Members
See www.beehive.govt.nz/release/pm-appoints-business-leaders-apec-business-advisory-council
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