NZ Trade ann Enterprise Appointments-2

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise has appointed Andrew French as its new Trade Commissioner to South Korea.

Mr French (MBS, BSocSci (Hons)) is of Ngati Hauiti and Ngati Apa descent and has extensive experience within both the private and public sector. Previously NZTE Maori Enterprise Team Manager, in his new role he will be responsible for promoting New Zealand products and services in New Zealand’s 6th largest export market.

Before joining the then Trade New Zealand in 2000 Mr French was Executive Director of the Maori Economic Development Commission. He has also worked for a range of public and private sector organisations including the Ministry of Maori Development, The Treasury, Reserve Bank of New Zealand and Banque Indosuez (London).

“South Korea is a key market for New Zealand exporters. It is a highly developed economy with consumers who are very quality conscious. New Zealand exporters have a lot to offer this market, including food and beverages, information and communications technology (ICT) film and wood products, ” said Mr French.

He added that several South Korean media came to New Zealand to cover the world premiere of The Lord of The Rings: The Return of The King and there are thousands of South Korean students in New Zealand, making it New Zealand’s second biggest education market for international students.

“New Zealand has a positive image in South Korea and we will be working closely with exporters to leverage this potential as well as developing new opportunities.

“Another important element in NZTE’s work will be to lead the promotion of New Zealand in South Korea as a world leader in innovation and new ideas, and at the forefront of new technology,” said Mr French.

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