The formation of a business led network to advocate for trade liberalisation is a welcome step, ACT Trade Negotiations Spokesman Owen Jennings said today.

"This move is overdue given the value to all New Zealanders from opening up markets, reducing protectionism and eliminating subsidies. Farmers have benefited from the gains made under the Uruguay Round and additional gains will achieved if a new round is instigated at Qatar later this month.

"There has been a tendency for the private sector to sit back and let the government of the day take responsibility for convincing New Zealanders of the value of freeing trade and for carrying New Zealand's case to the World Trade Organisation and similar international bodies'.

"It is sadly, abundantly clear that the current government is insufficiently committed to trade liberalisation with the Green party constantly opposing any progressive initiative to reduce protectionism.

"The new organisation has an important role both here and around the world with its investment capable of yielding valuable returns," Mr Jennings said.

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