NZ Pacific Business Council – 2008 Trade Expo

03/03/2008

PRESS RELEASE

New Zealand Pacific Business Council – 2008 Trade Expo

The New Zealand Pacific Business Council (NZPBC) will hold its two yearly Expo, bringing together more than 110 Exhibitors from 14 Pacific nations, representing a diverse range of industries and services. The 2008 Pacific Trade Expo, being held on 5 and 6 March at the Waitakere Trusts Stadium, Auckland, will be officially opened by Prime Minister, Rt Hon Helen Clark on Wednesday, 5 March at 9.00 am.

Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the world is the natural venue for this event. Major sponsors the Auckland, Manukau and Waitakere City Councils together with the PITIC - Pacific Trade and Investment Commission are delighted to be associated.

"NZPBC staffs have successfully promoted the event to the participating nations, which has been timed to compliment the annual Pasifika Festival 7 and 8 March.," NZPBC Chairman Gilbert Ullrich said.

Countries in attendance include Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Norfolk Island, the French Territories New Caledonia and French Polynesia and American Samoa .:

"The 2008 Trade Expo will include forums and workshops pertinent to Pacific Business Growth such as The New Era in Pacific Branding, Business and Environment in the Pacific, Banking and Investment Prospects in the Pacific, Helping Small Businesses to export to the Pacific, and Bio Security and Food Safety regulations. New Caledonia will hold its own workshops "New Caledonia - Land of Opportunities", New energy, Agriculture and Tourism."

A business centre will be available and a VIP Lounge, courtesy of Expo partner, ANZ Bank.

The 2008 Trade Expo is an exciting opportunity for New Zealand and the Pacific Island Traders to grow their business, and keep an eye to the future. With over a billion dollars in export sales to the Pacific during 2007 alone, on our doorstep lies a market that we have only just begun to tap.

As Pacific a nation we have the added advantage of strength through our cultural ties. I believe this is the point of difference in our competitive edge, and one we should continue to build upon," said Melino Maka, Deputy Chairman NZPBC.

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