Trade Network To Release New Publication

Media advisory – 1 July 2002 www.tln.org.nz

New Zealand’s largest fishing company, Sealord Group, will support the Trade Liberalisation Network at a function in Nelson on Wednesday 3 July to launch a new TLN publication explaining why trade is important for New Zealand and New Zealanders.

“Trade Rules OK!” makes the case for more open trade and highlights the importance of effective trade rules. It has been produced by the Trade Liberalisation Network, a business organisation aimed at building broad public support and understanding of trade. Sealord Group is a founding member of the TLN.

World Trade Organisation Director General Mike Moore will address the launch in a brief video, in which he outlines what is being pursued in the Doha round of international trade negotiations. The World Bank estimates that abolishing all trade barriers could increase global income by US$2,800 billion and lift 320 million people out of poverty by 2015.

TLN Executive Director Stephen Jacobi will introduce the new publication and explain the benefits which New Zealand as a trading nation derives from better trade rules. Without a system of rules small nations would be at the mercy of the rich and powerful. If just half the barriers to our exports were removed, New Zealand’s GDP would shoot up by 4% a year.

Sealord Group Chief Executive Phil Lough will make a presentation on what’s at stake for a global fishing company from freer international markets. Mr Lough says that trade fuels Nelson. More than 90 percent of Sealord’s revenue comes from overseas markets. The jobs of over 1600 New Zealand staff, including 1100 in Nelson, depend on trade.

The audience for the function comprises Nelson and Tasman civic and community leaders, school principals, local iwi and business representatives.

Note to media:
Media representatives wishing to attend the function or for further information please contact Stephen Jacobi at TLN cell 021 490 974 or Andrea Mead at Sealord phone 03 546 0970
To receive a copy of “Trade Rules OK!” please contact the TLN’s Wellington office – phone 04 914 6320 or info@tln.org.nz.
Trade Liberalisation Network – www.tln.org.nz

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