NZ China Council member appointment – Ray Smith

The New Zealand China Council is very pleased to welcome the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) represented by its Director-General Ray Smith as a new member.

The Council serves as a high-level forum for discussions between the public and private sectors.  Ray Smith joins the chief executives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise and Tourism New Zealand as government agency members, sitting alongside leaders of a diverse range of non-government organisations focused on New Zealand-China relations.

MPI’s membership reflects the importance of New Zealand’s primary sector exports to China.  In the year to 30 June 2022 these totalled NZ$19.2 billion, more than the next four export markets combined.  MPI represents the interests of New Zealand’s largest export sector in China, by maintaining both positive relationships and its reputation while also demonstrating New Zealand’s value as a trusted partner for China’s own primary sector.  A team of five MPI staff in Beijing work with New Zealand-based colleagues to advance these bilateral objectives.

Welcoming MPI, Chair John McKinnon emphasised the value that the diverse range of perspectives on China within the Council contributes to balanced management of a resilient relationship between New Zealand and China.

“MPI is on the front line of substantial efforts to maintain open trade between our two countries.  As a result it holds unique insights and connections that will add significant value to the Council’s discussions and work, alongside some of New Zealand’s largest primary sector companies and sector bodies which are also members”, John said.

“We also recognise Ray’s deep public sector leadership experience and the informed perspectives he will contribute to our work.”

Ray Smith’s bio is here.