How do New Zealand businesses prepare for the huge opportunities represented by rapidly growing Asian economic powerhouse?
That’s question being addressed by this month’s Action Asia Trade Summit – billed as being “one of the most important events for business, political and social leaders to enhance the way New Zealand engages with the Asian region” over the next decade.
Asia NZ chair Philip Burdon says the number of iconic local manufacturers now establishing production facilities in Asian countries highlights the “need for New Zealand companies to internationalise their production processes and systems in order to remain competitive”.
An Asia NZ Foundation report, The Reality Check, released in May shows that while New Zealanders are viewed positively in many parts of Asia, we can’t afford complacency, says Burdon. The report highlighted low ratings for New Zealanders’ ability in Asian languages and cultural sensitivity and suggests that we need to develop our business skills to take advantage of opportunities in Asia.
The Summit – being held at SkyCity Convention Centre on July 9-10 – aims to provide business with access to key market intelligence, case studies and leading international expertise.
Keynote speakers include the chief economist of the Asian Development Bank, Ifzal Ali, founder of the Washington-based Economic Strategy Institute, Clyde Prestowitz, and the vice president of communication intelligence for Korea’s SK Telecom Group, Songyee Yoon. Prime Minister Helen Clark will also be addressing the Summit.
•More information at www.actionasia.co.nz
Agri experts warn New Zealand’s food and fibre future could arrive by default rather than by design
Management Editorial Team
June 24, 2026
Despite near universal optimism in the rural sector, a panel of New Zealand’s leading food and agri minds say the sector must be intentional about its future path if it’s to successfully navigate the social, economic, environmental and technological forces impacting its operating environment.
