Chamber Welcomes First Step towards FTA with Japan

Chamber Welcomes First Step towards FTA with Japan

The Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the news that New Zealand and Japan have agreed to do a study on the benefits of a free-trade deal.

“This has been a high priority for us for some time and we are pleased that such progress has been made and that this agreement has been reached,” said Chamber Chief Executive, Charles Finny, speaking from Tokyo.

“Japan and New Zealand are natural trade partners with a well established relationship but that relationship has enormous potential to develop further.

“As global food shortages intensify, a trade agreement with New Zealand would be a good way for Japan to enhance its food security. It would provide New Zealand with access to the world’s second largest economy.

“The investigative study is only the first stage. Much work needs to be done before a Free Trade Agreement is negotiated. However this is a major step towards that goal.

“We congratulate the government for securing this commitment to make the study.

“We must also acknowledge the work of the International Business Forum for paving the way for this milestone at the Japan New Zealand Partnership Forum currently in Tokyo,” Mr Finny concluded.

ENDS

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