High Transport Costs are holding New Zealand Back

Media Release
25 January 2008

High Transport Costs are holding New Zealand Back

Figures showing that New Zealand freight costs are 30% higher than they are in Australia are a real concern according to the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The figures released by the Road Transport Forum today compare New Zealand with Victoria and Tasmania.

“An efficient and cost effective transport system is essential if New Zealand is to maintain its international competitiveness,” said Chamber CEO Charles Finny.

“Transport costs flow through to all parts of the economy. Businesses and consumers pay the price of over inflated freight costs which are reflected in everything they buy.

“Higher transport costs relative to Australia partly show why that country has a higher productivity record than New Zealand.

“If the government is serious about increasing our productivity growth, there is potential to make great progress here,” Mr Finny concluded.

ENDS

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