Trade Liberalisation Network Passes Baton

7 May 2007

Trade Liberalisation Network Passes Baton To NZ International Business Forum

The NZ Trade Liberalisation Network (TLN) is to become part of the newly established New Zealand International Business Forum.

"Now more than ever New Zealand's economic future depends on international markets and the TLN's work needs to be put into a bigger context" says outgoing TLN Chairman Stephen Jacobi.

As a result of a special meeting held today, 7 May, TLN members voted to amend the constitution to set up the New Zealand International Business Forum.

Stephen Jacobi said that for the last five years TLN had persuasively advocated the need for trade and more effective trade liberalisation to the point that this was now a major policy priority for the Government.

"TLN can take pride in what has been achieved since our inception in October 2001. Encouraging broad public support and understanding for trade is an ongoing task but TLN has effectively moved this debate forward. The International Business Forum has a much broader focus. It will work to ensure that New Zealand business is able to take full advantage of new opportunities in international markets".

Graeme Harrison, Chairman of the meat company Anzco Foods, is taking up the role of Chairman of the International Business Forum. Stephen Jacobi is taking up the role of Executive Director.

Mr Jacobi acknowledged that the current climate for exporters was difficult due to the high exchange rate.

"Times are tough but relying on the domestic market will not secure the future. The Forum will promote a new vision and leadership for New Zealand's international business growth and work co-operatively with the Government and existing business organisations to implement key projects".

Further detail about the Forum's strategic plan will be released at the time of the new Forum's official launch on 14 June 2007.

About the Trade Liberalisation Network

Since its establishment in October 2001, the TLN has worked to build public support and understanding for trade. Funded and supported by New Zealand's leading export interests, the TLN brought together like-minded individuals and organisations to promote policies which will accelerate economic growth and social development. See www.tln.co.nz

About the NZ International Business Forum

The Forum aims to generate wealth for New Zealanders by helping ensure that New Zealand enterprises are fully integrated and engaged in the global economy and New Zealand's global competitive position is maximized. To enable New Zealand business to exploit new opportunities in international markets, the Forum provides leadership, works with businesses and affiliated business organisations to implement key projects and articulates New Zealand's international business priorities to both the New Zealand Government and stakeholders.

ENDS

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