15 Mar 2011

'Too early' to tell impact of Japanese disasters on NZ economy

4:47 pm on 15 March 2011

Finance Minister Bill English says it is too early to tell what impact the events in Japan will have on New Zealand's economy.

Mr English says there are likely to be pluses and minuses, with demand disrupted for some products in the short-term, and the rebuild creating demand for other products further down the track.

Mr English says the kiwifruit industry is one that could be affected now, with its season just getting started.

He says tourism could also take a hit, as Japan is an important market.