Malaysian FTA Comes at a Critical Time

Media Release
2 June 2009

Malaysian FTA Comes at a Critical Time

A Free Trade Agreement with Malaysia, our seventh largest export market, will be a valuable addition to the suite of agreements already signed according to the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“Malaysia is an increasingly important market and source of investment for New Zealand and coming on top of the recently concluded ASEAN FTA, this agreement will further integrate New Zealand’s position in the region,” said Chamber Chief Executive Charles Finny.

“We look forward to seeing the detail but expect a good deal, particularly on areas of key services interest to New Zealand.

“Services are an increasingly important sector for Wellington exporters and New Zealand as a whole.

“For example, New Zealand has strong links with Malaysia in the area of export education and we are hopeful there will be further opportunities here for the Wellington economy.

“The conclusion of this FTA comes at a critical time for New Zealand. Growing New Zealand’s international markets is the key to economic growth in the longer term and the new FTA will be an important platform from which to do that.

“I would like to congratulate Trade Minister Tim Groser for his leadership, chief negotiator Vangelis Vitalis and his team for concluding the negotiation and Phil Goff and the previous government for launching the negotiations,” Mr Finny concluded.

ENDS

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