5 Sep 2016

New trade strategy for NZ taking shape

1:50 pm on 5 September 2016

Trad Minister Todd McClay hopes to have a rough outline of what a new trade strategy would look like by the end of the year.

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Todd McClay says it's time for a refresh of New Zealand's trade strategy. Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson

The government is seeking input on the strategy, and Mr McClay opened the first public meeting in Wellington this morning.

Mr McClay said the current strategy had been in place for 20 years and it was time for a refresh.

"So that we can be guided over the next 10 to 15 years of where government effort and resource should be put, and how we can engage more with the New Zealand public.

"But importantly also New Zealand businesses so we can continue to seek fairness for New Zealand traders overseas."

Mr McClay said non-tariff barriers were part of the reason for refreshing the strategy.

"This isn't about reducing the ability for New Zealand to have good rules, regulations or standards but it is about finding ways for us to recognise them cross-border, so that they are the same and our businesses are not over-burdened by the cost of doing business."

The next public meeting is in Auckland tomorrow afternoon.