Pacific Exporter's NetworkThe first 2014 Network event was hosted by Minter Ellison Rudd Watts at their Wellington Boardroom. It attracted 33 participants (a new record for the Network) and featured:
- An update about PEN activities by Charles Broad – Network Convenor.
- A presentation on a cloud based Export Documentation system by Wilhelmina Ligthart of Intertradedocs – Melbourne.
- A presentation by Rodney Craig and Daniel Fielding of Minter Ellison Rudd Watts on “Doing Business in the Pacific” with an emphasis on:
- Customs Duties and Restrictions
- Immigration Restrictions
- Foreign Investment Restrictions, Business Registration and Taxation
The presentations were followed by a question and answer session.
Attendees discussed:
- The many impediments to trade that exist throughout Pacific Island countries. The high tariffs into the French territories were seen by many as a major disincentive for expanding NZ’s exports in both French Polynesia and New Caledonia.
- The Fiji sanctions and their continuation by the New Zealand Government.
- The ability of the Intertrade Docs system to make export documentation requirements to Pacific nations relatively simple.
- The potential of the Minter Ellison Rudd Watts presentation to become a cornerstone resource of relevant information for Network members (further work on the draft paper is expected shortly).
- The changing trade environment.
- The possible impact of a successful TPP agreement on future Pacific trade links.
The network is again grateful for the continued support of Minter Ellison Rudd Watts for its work in supporting PEN’s work in revitalising New Zealand’s trade with Pacific Island countries.
See the Galley page here.