NZ Trade & Enterprise Appointment

Wednesday, 24 March 2004, 9:14 am
Press Release: New Zealand Trade and Enterprise

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise has appointed David Ferguson as its new Trade Commissioner to Japan. Mr Ferguson was formerly Trade Commissioner to South Korea.

He will be responsible for managing and developing New Zealand’s trade relationship with Japan which ranks as New Zealand’s 3rd largest export market.

Having previously spent 6 years working in Japan, he has both an understanding of the market and Japanese language skills.

“The Japanese economy has been sluggish for some years, however it ranks as the second largest economy in the world and as such demands the attention of New Zealand exporters. Provided the recently displayed economic growth and improved confidence continue, market opportunities here can only increase,” says Mr Ferguson.

Mr Ferguson says that more important are changing demographics in Japan making it essential that exporters remain well-informed about shifts in consumption patterns.

“Distribution patterns are also continually being revised. In following such changes, our experienced staff in Tokyo are well positioned to provide market intelligence and strategic advice to both sectors and individual companies.”

Prior to joining NZTE, Mr Ferguson handled export development for a major New Zealand food manufacturer during which time he won the export scholarship at the New Zealand Export Awards. He has a Masters degree in Marketing and International Business, an Agricultural Science degree and a Diploma in Business Studies.

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