Option Of Moving Offshore Shouldn't Be Ignored

Export champion Mayson says option of moving offshore shouldn't be ignored

Speaking at the Small Business Expo in Christchurch today, Jon Mayson, president of Export New Zealand, said the option of moving operations offshore is one that some exporters would have to seriously consider in order to keep their organisation competitive and keep their earnings flowing back into New Zealand.

During a keynote speech, Mayson told expo attendees that he had no issue with exporters moving some or all of their operations offshore, as suggested by Economic Development Minister Trevor Mallard today.

"It's about what's best for New Zealand in the long term. Why do we call ourselves an exporting nation when we import more than we export? We often assume improving New Zealand's balance of trade is someone else's problem, but none of us can be complacent," said Mayson. "There are so many excellent ideas and products in New Zealand but too many stay in New Zealand. International trade generates wealth, so what are we going to do about it?" Mayson challenged his audience.

Mayson told the business owners attending the expo, a mix of current and aspiring exporters, that there were many resources to help them overdue difficulties of market access and regulations to become exporters.

"Organisations like Export New Zealand and New Zealand Trade & Enterpise help business owners get into a position to take advantage of global opportunities and the networking aspect of belonging to organisations like this is extremely worthwhile.

"If you're not exporting now, consider how you could expand to an offshore market. What potential do you have to grow your business through export?"

Mayson urged attendees to not let the frustration of exchange rate changes and market regulations make them stop exporting. "Go for high added value products and high margins. Create that niche and look at your business to see how you can do it better."

Mayson was speaking as part of The National Bank Seminar Series, part of the inaugural Christchurch Small Business Expo which runs from Wednesday 29 August to Friday 31 August at the Christchurch Convention Centre.

ENDS

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