NZ China Council welcomes signing of China FTA upgrade

The New Zealand China Council welcomes the signing of the NZ-China free trade agreement upgrade as positive news for Kiwi exporters amid ongoing global uncertainty.

Chairman Sir Don McKinnon says the upgraded agreement will contribute strongly to New Zealand’s economic recovery from Covid-19 and highlights the value of our steady and constructive relationship with China.

“Exporters of services will enjoy new market access in sectors such as audio visual and environmental services, and many who are already exporting to China will receive expanded access to the market.

“The elimination of tariffs on key wood and paper products will be a significant boost to our $3 billion trade in these exports, and is good news for the forestry industry which employs large numbers of people in the regions,” Sir Don says.

More broadly, New Zealand exporters will benefit from reduced trade barriers including simplified customs procedures, greater transparency and less red tape to facilitate and improve the overall flow of trade in goods.

“The upgraded agreement will ensure New Zealand remains agile and competitive in our largest and most important trading market.  It reflects modern ways of doing business and places New Zealand on a strong footing in an increasingly competitive global trading environment,” Sir Don says.

The upgraded FTA will also create new opportunities for cooperation in e-commerce, the environment, competition policy and other areas and allow for greater dialogue between New Zealand and China on issues of mutual importance.

“The signing of the agreement upgrade demonstrates the commitment that New Zealand and China share to an open and rules based trading system, and delivers greater confidence and certainty for exporters as our economy continues to recover from Covid 19,” Sir Don says.