6. H V ROSS ROBERTSON (Labour—Manukau East) Link to this
to the Minister for Economic Development
What steps is the Government taking to assist exporters to enter key overseas markets?
Hon TREVOR MALLARD (Minister for Economic Development) Link to this
New Zealand firms trying to crack key markets overseas will get extra support from Budget 2006, thanks to a $64.2 million increase in market development assistance. This funding will support Kiwi firms to establish in-market representation—
Hon TREVOR MALLARD Link to this
Well, I can see the pale Canterbury man over there. The scheme will work on a co-funding arrangement, and it is a great example of how a Labour-led Government is working in partnership with Kiwi businesses to transform New Zealand into an innovative, high-value economy.
John KeyH V Ross Robertson Link to this
What other steps is the Government taking to ensure that our export performance improves?
Hon TREVOR MALLARD Link to this
We have designated 2007 as Export Year, in order to focus on productivity and export growth. Through the Beachheads Programme we are providing valuable support to our exporters in overseas markets—support such as office solutions, clustering with other New Zealand companies, access to expert advice and support, and the contacts and networks necessary to grow business. I might say that our performance is not helped by some people in this House.
R Doug WoolertonIs it correct that the confidence and supply agreement between Labour and New Zealand First commits the Government to prioritising measures to significantly grow our export sector, and is the $64.2 million increase in market development assistance announced in the Budget part of that prioritisation?
Hon TREVOR MALLARD Link to this
If the member’s party would like to claim credit for it, I am happy to share it with that party.