Neu: 2002-01-14 Contents of this issue:
1. Export Focus ======================================================================== January 14th, 2002 1. Export Focus: The South Pacific Trade Commission office in Auckland, New Zealand says it will again target export development and investment promotion this year, as part of its trade promotion activities for Forum Island Countries. The trade commission is one of four administered by the Suva-based Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, with others based in Sydney, Tokyo and Beijing. "We will continue to raise awareness in Pacific Island countries regarding the marketing and investment opportunities that are available in New Zealand," said Mr Parmesh Chand, Trade Commissioner for the South Pacific Trade Commission. "An outreach programme to the New Zealand business sector will highlight possible joint venture opportunities in the Pacific Islands. "We also seek to improve the networking and collaboration with Pacific Island importers, and make more use of information technology in the delivery of our work programme." Mr Chand said the trade commission would update existing market reports in sectors such as textiles, clothing and footwear, food products and medicinal herbs. Other activities would cover trade fairs, trade missions and information on market prices and quality issues. A series of in-country investment seminars are planned this year for the main regional centres in New Zealand. The trade commission also assists with background checks on investors by undertaking credit checks through established agencies. Trade commission staff will visit eight of the 14 Forum Island Countries this year to promote the trade and investment service offered by the trade commission, and to obtain more feedback from members regarding their interests. "All of our members should be able to benefit in some way, regardless of their size or level of development," Mr Chand said. __END__
