Hon Phil Goff
Minister of Trade

25 May 2008
Media statement

Roadshow gives businesses tools to put China FTA to work

A nationwide roadshow to begin tomorrow will help businesses make the most of New Zealand’s Free Trade Agreement with China, Trade Minister Phil Goff said today.

“Kiwi businesses have an edge on competitors because of New Zealand’s first mover advantage and the huge exposure we gained in China during the FTA signing,” Phil Goff said.

“But we have to capitalise on this advantage and make the FTA work for us. That is why the Government has organised this roadshow.

“The roadshow, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, is part of a range of Government initiatives aimed at supporting Kiwi businesses keen to move into or expand in China.

“It follows the launch of the all-of-government ChinaFTA.govt.nz Website, which has received 159,000 hits in six weeks, and the start of a new Beachheads China programme.

“Those seeking to break into the China market face challenges of working in a different culture and legal system, but the potential benefits to New Zealand are huge. The two-day interactive workshops will provide valuable information for businesses to take the next step in developing capability in the vast and growing China market.

“Presentations will provide insight into the content and impact of the agreement and offer practical advice on doing business in China, including case studies from New Zealand companies knowledgeable of the market.

“There is a wealth of information to be found among New Zealand business people who already have in-depth experience of China, and a real willingness to share,” Phil Goff said.

The all-of-government website www.ChinaFTA.govt.nz provides detailed information on the agreement including useful information about tariff level reductions.

Notes

The Roadshow programme covers two days. Day one is the New Zealand China Free Trade Agreement implementation seminar and workshops. Day two is Navigating China for New Zealand businesses.

Each Roadshow will be opened with a Ministerial breakfast and a presentation from FTA Lead Negotiator David Walker.

Wellington – 26-27 May, Westpac Stadium
Ministerial breakfast: Hon Phil Goff, 7.35am – 8.45am, 26 May

Auckland – 28-29 May, Langham Hotel
Ministerial breakfast: Hon Phil Goff, 7.35am – 8.45am, 28 May

Christchurch – 3-4 June, Christchurch Convention Centre
Ministerial breakfast: Hon Lianne Dalziel, 7.35am – 8.45am, 3 June

Hamilton – 5-6 June, Waikato Stadium
Ministerial breakfast: Hon Luamanuvao Winnie Laban, 7.35am – 8.45am, 5 June

Dunedin – 9-10 June, The Dunedin Centre
Ministerial breakfast: Hon Pete Hodgson, 7.35am – 8.45am, 10 June

Media who wish to attend the Ministerial breakfasts and the sessions on day one of the programme are welcome to do so.

Any media questions will need to be done separate to the presentation and question time. These sessions are designed for a business/public audience and Ministers can be accessed for interviews at the conclusion of the breakfasts.

Cameras/filming are permitted during the Ministerial breakfasts but not during the workshops.

Day Two is closed to media (with the exception of the Ministerial breakfast in Dunedin).

ENDS

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