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Saturday, 18 December 2010

Whanganui's Inland Container Terminal

Photo: Graeme Siddle


This photo of containers in the Palmerston North railyards was taken from Tremaine Avenue on Friday 17 December, 2010.   Having heard/read suggestions for an inland port for Palmerston North I googled ‘inland port palmerston north ‘  and found that on 7th October, 2010, the Wanganui Chronicle announced the creation of an inland container terminal in Whanganui’s industrial area in an article by John Maslin - http://www.wanganuichronicle.co.nz/local/news/inland-container-terminal-is-all-shipshape/3925469/
Train enthusiasts have posted some photos of the line to Castlecliff and the facilities at:

It appears then that Palmerston North has missed out on this opportunity and will instead consolidate its position as a distribution hub with a population catchment of over 1 million people.

Exporting companies are playing a key role in the Whanganui development.  However there doesn’t seem be any information on the net about how the project is going and whether it is fully operational yet.   Perhaps Whanganui readers of this blog or those interested may be able to contribute to this.

Wednesday, 8 December 2010

Learning languages follows trade deals?

The Palmerston North Tribune recently (November 24, 2010) published an article about Dr Colin Anderson, retiring senior lecturer in languages at Massey University.  He said that language studies follow fashions and trade deals.  'All BA students in the 1970s had to have a foreign language as part of their degree and many opted for French.   In the 1980s that requirement was dropped, but emerging trade deals with Japan created demand for Japanese speakers.  Something similar happened in the 1990s with more trade and contact with Latin America triggering demand for Spanish.'   Dr Anderson said that he can see the next big push will be for Chinese.  He also believes that children should start learning another language at eight or nine.
Since New Zealand has trade talks coming up with Russia will there be a renaissance of Russian teaching?  Or will Korean studies be set up in one of our tertiary institutions?
It seems Dr Anderson is not alone in stressing the importance of teaching foreign languages.  Japan's education minister Yoshiaki Takaki has said: "Since we are living in a globalized society, I am keenly aware of the necessity of children acquiring the ability to communicate in foreign languages."  (Japan Times October 13, 2010)
Will New Zealand exporters be equipped first to negotiate deals with countries such as Russia, Kazakhstan and Korea, and then to carry on successful trade with them?  Or will we expect these new trading partners to speak English?

  

Tuesday, 7 December 2010

TPP Talks in Auckland 6-10 December 2010



You may have been wondering where to get further resources on the TPP talks which are currently being held in Auckland.  The newspapers and news websites do have reports -  by googling:  tpp talks Auckland you will retrieve some information.
A website sponsored by a grant from the School of Law at the University of Auckland which has more comprehensive information is the Trans-Pacific Partnership Digest at:
As the name suggests it brings together information about the TPP – it tends to give space to those who oppose the TPP but as the talks are not open to the public, there is no information which can be given at the moment.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade does have daily media briefings at this page:

Monday, 29 November 2010

Trade in Waste

Having fulminated earlier this month about the non-e-day we had in Palmerston North city, I was very interested to read in the IELP blog of the trade in waste which is happening between Japan and the Philippines.   You can read it at: http://worldtradelaw.typepad.com/ielpblog/2010/11/trade-in-everything-electronic-waste.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+ielpblog+(International+Economic+Law+and+Policy+Blog)
 There are some references to other posts at the bottom of Simon's post.  

Of course China is the world's largest importer of the world's waste materials according to an article published in The Guardian Weekly on the 16th January 2010.  China is reputed to take as a third of Britain's recyclables.  However the economic downturn has affected this industry in China.

Monday, 22 November 2010

Unhealthy dependence on dairy exports???

From the International Economic Law and Policy Blog 15 November 2010:


Exports and Domestic Demand

Posted by Simon Lester
President Obama:
"countries with large surpluses must shift away from an unhealthy dependence on exports and take steps to boost domestic demand".
Is domestic demand too low in China and other countries with trade surpluses?  Or is domestic demand too high in the U.S. and other countries with trade deficits?  How do we determine the appropriate level of domestic demand?

This blog is managed by WorldTradeLaw.net.  You can find it at: http://worldtradelaw.typepad.com/ielpblog/
The 15 November posts also include one on the TPP which is a matter of debate for New Zealand.

Monday, 15 November 2010

Proposed new FTA between New Zealand and Russia

I hope that our negotiators are aware of the following information in their work to get this FTA developed and signed:


Russia’s Doing Business Rating Falls Seven Points

Nov. 9 – Russia ranked only 123rd this year in an international rating of improving entrepreneurial conditions by country. The report was compiled by the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation under the title, “Doing Business 2011: Making a Difference for Entrepreneurs.” The research involved 183 countries.
Compared to last year, Russia’s rating has fallen seven points. From the CIS, Russia is topped by Kazakhstan ranked 59th, which took top honors for the most-improved business environment in 2009-10, Belarus ranked 68th.
The top 10 leading reformers were Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Ireland and Australia.
During the investigation period from June 2009 to June 2010, only two reforms were settled in Russia. The regulator eased construction permitting by implementing a one-stop shop for all procedures related to land use and introduced a series of legislative measures to improve creditor rights and the insolvency system.
At the same time, the construction permitting procedure is still one of the weakest points of doing business in Russia. The country ranks 182nd in that category.
Russian businessmen are spending 41.4 percent of their income on getting electricity, while in other countries businessmen spend an average of 6.8 percent of their income.
“To come to a building site in Moscow, a developer has to collect about 50 different signatures,” Anton Danilov-Danilyan from Delovaya Rosiiya criticizes.
It takes 30 days and demands nine different conciliatory procedures to start a business in Russia. By comparison, it takes just six procedures and 16 days to set up a business in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
Russia did however receive appreciation for judicial maintenance of contracts execution and occupied 18th place in the annual survey. The cases are considered in 281 days (1.8 times faster than in OECD member-countries), and costs 13.4 percent from the claim price (19.2 percent).
“Probably, doing business in Russia is easier that is appears from the World Bank report, but on such ratings foreign investors size up the country, ” Igor Nikolays from FBK said, but “it does not matter what we think of our achievements. The matter is how we are estimated by others.”

Tuesday, 9 November 2010

Global Entrepreneurship Week November 15-21

GEW is the world's largest celebration on entrepreneurship and innovation with 88 countries participating.  Have a look at www.unleashingideas.org to see what's going on.  Palmerston North has a full programme organised by Vision Manawatu which you can see at their website www.visionmanawatu.org.nz and it's really great to see that.  I have to say I was surprised to see that e-day seemed to pass unnoticed in this city - of course that is another story although it does have a connection with export products!

Thursday, 21 October 2010

Guanxi

It’s not about Guanxi. It’s about your Business Model and Due Diligence China Briefing News

If you are exporting to China, or thinking of exporting to China, have a look at this article. It is challenging to those of us who have pushed "guanxi" which in New Zealand is also New Zealand government agencies. On p.43 of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise's publication 'Navigating China - for New Zealand businesses' there are several sections on guanxi. It's worth looking at this and then again at the article in China Briefing News alongwith all the posts it has generated.

Wednesday, 29 September 2010

GoGlobal - Our forum for international business

The national conference for exporters is being held in Auckland on Wednesday 27 October 2010. Export managers and leaders from key companies such as Comvita, Fonterra, Glidepath, Trilogy and Xero will be there sharing their knowledge and experience. For full details see the website: http://www.nzgoglobal.co.nz/

Wednesday, 8 September 2010

FREE China City Guides

City Guides : Asia Briefing Bookstore, Doing Business In Asia Resources

If you exporting to China already, or thinking about it, you might like to explore the possibility of getting one of these complimentary city guides. 27 cities are included in the list including Beijing.

Wednesday, 25 August 2010

Counting Carbon in Exports








This is an example of a carbon label which expresses the carbon footprint of a product.  This issue is one which of real concern for New Zealand exporters.  Free trade agreements may be all very well but instead we may be faced with non-tariff barriers.

You can read a short but useful article from International Trade Forum - the quarterly magazine of the International Trade Centre at:

http://www.tradeforum.org/news/printpage.php/aid/1545/Counting_Carbon_in_Exports:_Carbon_Footprinting_Initiatives_and_what_They_Mean_for_Exporters_in_Developing_Countries.html

Monday, 23 August 2010

Baltic Dry

This sounds like a new beer but it actually refers to the Baltic Dry Index which measures the rates charged for chartering the ships which carry commodities such as coal, iron ore and grain.

http://www.economist.com/blogs/newsbook/2010/07/shipping_rates_slump

Wednesday, 18 August 2010

Library Week 2010 - Ask Me - Mode 4 Trade

I came across a reference to 'Mode 4 trade' recently, so decided to set this as my question for Library Week 2010:

Q. What is Mode 4 trade?


A. This is defined as individuals moving across borders to deliver a service e.g. a construction worker or fruit-picker. This is officially known as ‘movement of natural persons.’

Source: http://www.migrationdrc.org/publications/briefing_papers/BP4.pdf

 This source gives very useful information about all four of the modes as set out by GATS.  Certainly we have Mode 4 trade going on in New Zealand where fruitpickers are hired to come and pick summer fruit or kiwifruit.

Tuesday, 17 August 2010

Library Week 2010 - Ask Me - APEC Travel Card

An exporter has asked "what is an APEC Travel Card? What does it offer? and Who can apply for one?

The APEC Business Travel Card is used in conjunction with a passport and provides accedited business people streamlined access to participating countries such as the People's Republic of China. Cardholders get:
  • express immigration clearance through special APEC lanes on arrival and departure
  • no requirement to apply for visas or entry permits
  • multiple entry to participating countries for a stay of up to 90 days on each visit
Business people who are engaged in trade and investment acticities and who:
  • are nationals of the participating countries
  • travel frequently to conduct trade and investment in participating APEC countries, and
  • are of good character
can apply for the card.   There is a $NZD150 fee.  You can get a list of all the APEC countries and more information at:

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/apec/

One of our exporters reports that 'it is the best thing since sliced bread and is cheaper than visas and you get fast transit through airports.'  It's obviously worth looking into.

Business Scholarships - Focus on Exporters

Beehive - Better businesses aim of PM's Business Scholarships

This looks promising for the export sector.

Tuesday, 10 August 2010

New Zealand's Apple Dispute - WTO decision

WTO 2010 News items - Panel report out on apple dispute

This is really making news today and you can read the WTO Panel Report here. This decision is important not only for New Zealand's relationship with Australia, but also potentially for China's apple industry which is the world's largest. See TVNZ's report: http://tvnz.co.nz/business-news/wto-rules-favoour-nz-apple-row-3690076

Wednesday, 4 August 2010

QR codes

This is the QR-code developed for the BBC  in the UK.  The latest issue of Exporter magazine has a useful article by Anthony Doesburg entitled: "The Viral Potential of QR Code for Product Marketing".   (Issue 15 June Qtr 2010 p.22)  He notes that the winemaker Giesen from Canterbury is about to start using codes on their wine bottles.  The Giesen wine I looked at in the supermarket this week certainly didn't have them yet.

Has anyone had any experience of QR-codes within the exporting sector, or for non-profits?  It would be great to hear from you/

Tuesday, 20 July 2010

Where We Are Now

The New Zealand School of Export has just added a copy of this book to its collection - you can check it out at: http://ets.kohalibrary.com/

The section on Finance and Commerce covers: Money, Wealth, Debt, Globalization, Work, Advertising, Fair Trade, Arms and Organized Crime.  If you are thinking or doing one of the School's courses: the Exporter Growth Programme, or, the Diploma of International Trade,  this chapter would be great as background for the first Module: Global Business Environment.

You can check out the contents of this Module at:
http://www.export.ac.nz/whatcanyoustudywiththenewzealandschoolofexport.html

'Where We Are Now' has great graphics and presents information in a way that makes you say: "I didn't know that".  My only gripe with what is an excellent resource is that New Zealand doesn't seem to figure at all!

Wednesday, 14 July 2010

Inventing the 21st Century - London Exhibition

Inventing the 21st Century

If you are going to be in London between the 6 September and the 28 November 2010, why not visit the British Library and have a look at this exhibition. It tells you the stories behind the inventions of this, the first decade of the 21st century.

This exhibition is supported by the British Library's Business & IP Centre which you can check out at: http://www.bl.uk/bipc/

Wednesday, 7 July 2010

Business Link - do you get it?

Have you subscribed to MFAT's newsletter Business Link?  It is available electronically and you can subscribe by emailing your name, business and email address to: tplu@mfat.govt.nz

The June/July issue has just come out and it is really valuable round-up of all that is going on with trade agreement negotiations as well as a good source on MFAT's Roadshows.  The Papua New Guinea ones have just started with Hamilton and Tauranga tomorrow 8 July and Auckland on the 9th.  As well there will be Intellectual Property in Brazil seminars next week 13-16 July in Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch and Wellington.

I think it is really worthwhile and because it is delivered to you electronically - you can discard if there is nothing on your market!

Monday, 5 July 2010

International Mobility

Witht the increasing emphasis on New Zealand exporting companies having a presence in the world and particularly in their export markets, it is highly likely that employees of those companies will be asked to work overseas.   This may be part of setting up and staffing an office in a new marekt, or it may be part of a joint venture or offshore manufacturing plant.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the UK has developed a resource called "International Mobility" which, while it reflects its UK origins and audience, is useful in any of these situations where staff might move from home to a new export market to work.

It includes a series of checklists under the headings:
  • Preparation and planning
  • Remuneration, benefits and allowances
  • Guarantees of success
Such a resource is recommended if your company is in this situation and especially if you don't have an HR department.   For further information about this resource contact: library@export.ac.nz

Sunday, 4 July 2010

Whanganui Matters



A group of people in Whanganui have just issued the first number of this magazine called "Wanganui Matters or Whanganui matters" sub-titled 'Wanganui's signature business and lifestyle magazine'. The cover features some examples of the glass objects coming from Whanganui's Glass School.

Inside there are articles about manufacturing companies who are exporting such as GDM Group, a piece about the Lean Wanganui Group which is based on Demming's 'Lean Philosophy' and mention of a trade training school which has been established.

It's great to see a small city such as Whanganui telling the world what's happening there and especially about its exporters. Watch out for a copy. ELIS can provide you with a copy of the Table of Contents or articles of relevance to you and your business activity - email: library@export.ac.nz
Posted by Picasa

Wednesday, 23 June 2010

Surface Trade

An update which I received from the II-EI in Phoenix, Arizona earlier this month had a heading which grabbed my attention.  It read:

March 2010 Surface Trade with Canada and Mexico Rose 37.0 Percent from March 2009

It was the phrase surface trade which did the grabbing!  Of course it means trade using surface transportation between the US and its NAFTA partners.   I realised that New Zealand doesn't have surface trade to anywhere becasue we aren't connected to any other landmass!   Well not until there is a bridge to Australia which is our major export partner - it could be called the CER Bridge.   That's Closer Economic Relations for readers not in Australia or New Zealand and was the title of the Free Trade Agreement between the two countries signed in 1983. 

Monday, 21 June 2010

The devaluation of "export" in advertising, or is it fair enough?

Have you seen advertising which includes the word 'export' where its use is meant to endorse the value of the product or service?  The star shape is often used - presumably to enhance the quality message.

Or have you seen the word 'export' used as an adjective on an actual product or on its packaging?  Another variation you may have come across is 'Returned export order' or 'Surplus to export order'.

Do we ever pause to think what this use of 'export' means?   Does it devalue real exports?   Are we taken in by these uses of the word 'export' because we think that exports are always the top quality, the best our country can produce?  Maybe they are and therefore we are not taken in ?
Who assesses export quality?   Is there a generally applied meaning for this which is - 'of the highest quality' - as it applies to individual products?   Or is it simply loose use of language to dupe the consumer?

What do you think?   Is there a case to answer for the deliberate misuse of the word 'export' or is it fair enough?

Thursday, 17 June 2010

How does manufacturing measure up?

If you are a manufacturer and an exporter, you may be interested in a new report called Management Matters in New Zealand.   It shares the results of a project which benchmarked management practices in New Zealand manufacturing firms against global standards.
It goes without saying that if companies are not managed effectively this affects every aspect of production through to export delivery.
The report has been published as a pdf on the Ministry of Economic development website and you can access it through ELIScat - click on this URL:
http://ets.kohalibrary.com/cgi-bin/koha/opac-detail.pl?biblionumber=859

If you need to get started with benchmarking, look at the New Zealand School of Export's website at:
http://www.export.ac.nz/findinginformation.html#Benchmark

Friday, 4 June 2010

Russia New Zealand FTA

http://admin.beehive.govt.nz/release/new+zealand-russia+begin+fta+scoping+discussions   

Did you see this announcement on the Beehive website about the beginning of discussions for a bilateral agreement between Russia and New Zealand?

An article in the Dominion  Post newspaper this morning suggested that such a deal would pave the way for Russia to join Asia-Pacific trade arrangements.   It also lists trade opprtunities in such product areas as clothing & textiles, foodstuffs & beverages, education and the creative industries.

As with the already signed China Free Trade Agreement, it raises a myriad of questions as to whether New Zealand should enter into such agreements and with which countries.

Saturday, 29 May 2010

Budget 2010 - a late comment

The Budget summary despatched by  local National candidate for the last election Malcolm Plimmer included this statement under the heading: Biggest tax reform in 25 years

Tax package provides incentives for Kiwis to get ahead, leaves the vast majority better off and tilts the economy towards savings, exports and productive investment
Tilts!  It is not geared to produce much more than a gentle lean!  Exporters needed a shove in the economy not a tilt!

Friday, 28 May 2010

The End of Autumn at Aokautere Park

Here are a couple of photos taken on May 27 in the morning on a not very bright day.   This is the end of the golden weather!:

Thursday, 27 May 2010

Paul Reynolds died 23 May 2010

Today at St Patrick's Cathedral in Auckland the funeral service for Paul Reynolds is being held.   New Zealand will farewell a man supportive of libraries and librarians, and an enthusiastic commentator on the world - not just the IT world.
When I saw the emails nzlibs 'RIP Paul Reynolds' and read them - it didn't dawn on me that he had died - I thought rather that he finished his blog or moved to another country!  Alas I did finally discover that he had died on 23 May from leukemia.
I was most familiar with him from his posts to nzlibs and from his slot on National Radio on Afternoons.   He was so interesting, with a touch of feistiness and a good deal of sense.  Often I heard him while driving and I wished I had a pen and paper to note down his thoughts.
Yesterday May 26 Hamish MacEwan and Jim Mora talked about him on Afternoons and you can hear that broadcast here:
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/afternoons/20100526

The whole of the library world in New Zealand will be the poorer without Paul Reynolds - not the Telecom Paul Reynolds as this Paul would say!
Graeme Siddle

Thursday, 20 May 2010

NEW Students Page

 Go to: http://www.export.ac.nz/studentspage.html to access really useful information for students about New Zealand's international trade.

This page has been prepared by the New Zealand School of Export and is freely available to students and others.   If you know students needing this kind of information please refer them to this URL.

Tuesday, 18 May 2010

Shanghai Expo Fun Facts

Shanghai Expo Fun Facts = Expo 2010 reality

Have a look at this (click on the title) to get an idea of what Expo 2010 in Shanghai is really like to visit. Well at least the New Zealand Pavilion didn't get slated - nor did it close early!  But then to be honest it wasn't among those admired by this writer...

Thursday, 13 May 2010

Telling trade stories

I have come across a great website called All told - helping New Zealand exporters tell stronger stories.   http://www.alltold.co.nz/

All Told is the trading name of Chris Wilson & Associates Ltd - Chris used to write for bright magazine (now sadly canned).  The All Told people believe that exporters are not telling their story well enough and they are there to help.  Yes they charge, but there is also some great free stuff on the website too.

For example I pulled off a 12 point checklist to help exporters prepare and write a memorable story. 

Have a look at it.
So just to finish a mini-story:

Gordon Brown appealed to God before the election for some cash.   When the volcanic ash came from Iceland - he said to God: 'I said cash not ash'.   Well.... prayers are always answered but not in the way we expect.

Tuesday, 4 May 2010

Will Katla Blow?

The prospect of the Icelandic volcano Katla erupting will be making some exporters quail at the possibility and others may be rejoicing.   The CIPD (United Kingdom) Update for 28 April 2010 did a poll on volcanic ash disruption which revealed that the biggest impact on business was people being stuck abroad (72%).   Just 22% felt that the disruption had no impact, and 6% had problems with imports/exports.

The flower exporters of Kenya would I am sure tell a different story.

Here is New Zealand the disruption has opened up new markets for a fish exporter.   The demand for NZ King Salmon's products have 'rocketed' in Asia and the Middle East.   You can read the report at:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/3629824/Icelandic-volcano-fires-up-taste-for-Kiwi-fish-exports

Have you got any disruption stories?  Take a moment to share them with us.

Thursday, 29 April 2010

Records & Archives Week 2010

Don't forget to think about your Archives this week - and do read my Post on TraLIS:

http://tralis.blogspot.com/

There is a copy of the stunning poster there too.

Tuesday, 27 April 2010

World Trade Month - Column - World Trade

World Trade Month

As you can see, in the US May is organised and celebrated as World Trade Month. Perhaps the international trade community in New Zealand: exporters, logistics specialists, export financiers, educators could highlight the importance of world trade in their own organisations.

If you organise something in your organisation how about letting the Exportersblog community know what you are planning or what you actually do. Post to this blog or make a comment on this post, or if you are too shy to post or comment then email me and I will post your plans: graeme@export.ac.nz

There are plenty of achievements to celebrate in New Zealand companies and New Zealand organisations who are actively promoting or 'doing' trade things. Let's hear about them for May 2010 World Trade Month.

Thursday, 22 April 2010

FTA Exporter Survey Report - India and other countries

Photo: Delhi Conversation taken by Sushrutha Metikurke 2010.   Used with permission. http://sushrutha.blogspot.com/

India is one of the countries covered in this report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.   15 countries are included and responses across a range of questions such as: Barriers in the market, Administrative procedures and red tape, institutional and domestic issues, are covered.   Exporters responses are of course very useful for other businesses considering these markets, but they also help to influence the negotiation process that New Zealand engages in during the FTA process.  Here is the link to the pdf document

http://www.mfat.govt.nz/downloads/trade/fta-exporter-survey-report-(public).pdf

This document is well worth looking at.

Monday, 19 April 2010

Calling all Wellington, New Zealand Exportersblog readers

Did you know that your library system (Wellington City Libraries)  has now got Marketline. You can read about it at: http://www.marketlineinfo.com/    At the moment it is only available for use in the Central Library at the Science and Humanities desk and on the free internet pcs.   If you are out taking a stroll in your lunchhour why not pop in and see Marilyn Domney (the Business Librarian)  and her team.
They also offer one hour's free non-urgent research to anyone with a Wellington City Libraries' card.

The Business Service of Wellington City Libraries has its own page on their website in case you have not found it:  http://www.wcl.govt.nz/business/index.html

Monday, 12 April 2010

Chocaholics

will have noticed that there is a war going on.  Over the weekend the chocolate manufacturer Whittakers from Porirua screened a long advertisement based on the theme of  "What's Fair" which included the fact that some of their range uses Fair Trade products.  Today Cadbury in New Zealand have countered with a newspaper campaign also saying that they are using Fair Trade products.   With Cadbury's recent disastrous introduction of palm oil into their recipe, one wonders if they can get back on top using the fair trade line...

Oh well we shall await the next shot!

Sunday, 11 April 2010

Product Realisation & Medical Technology exports

Yesterday morning on Radio New Zealand's national Programme Finlay McDonald interviewed New Zealander of the Year - Ray Avery.   He has been involved in developing a number of medical technology products for the developing world e.g. an incubator which prevents the growth of bacteria and which can be used successfully in developing countries without the huge costs usually associated with this technology. 

One of the key concepts which he outlined was 'product realisation'  which he defined as 'the development of a product for which a need has been established or can be seen' (as opposed to developing a product which an innovative person thinks people are going to want).   This definition of product realisation is different from some of the definitions I have seen,

His business is selling many products from NZ to the Third world which have been developed in this way.   He also mentioned comments by the Government's Chief Science Advisor Peter Gluckman who said at a Medical Technology Conference in Auckland in February this year that:

'New Zealand's emerging medical technology sector, projected to become a billion industry within the next five years, was one of the most promising aspects of New Zealand's economy.'

Wednesday, 7 April 2010

Inthehouse.co.nz

Have you caught up with this resource: http://www.inthehouse.co.nz/?   It is essentially Parliament TV on demand delivered via YouTube.   There is a search facility so you can search on "exporting" or "free trade agreements", and results are delivered back with the names of Ministers and MPS underneath.   A search on "export" found this clip from November 2009 on the Government's export strategy:

http://www.inthehouse.co.nz/node/264

It might confirm for you how little is said in the House of Representatives about exporting!

Saturday, 3 April 2010

A Nut Resource

Still don't know what export product this is?  I wouldn't have either!    It is a photo of a cashew apple and the cashew nut shown in an image from Cornell University.

Did you know that Vietnam has a 37% dominance of the world cashew market?  I didn't until I read this article by Leo Lewis which was reprinted in the Dominion Post on March 27, 2010 on p.C9: http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/consumer_goods/article7071629.ece


The major producers of raw cashew nuts are: India, Brazil, Vietnam, West Africa and East Africa  and the
top 14 countries producing Cashew Nuts (in alphabetical order) are: Benin, Brazil, Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan. Source: http://www.cashew.in/
 
Vietnam has just opened an electronic exchange floor for trading cashews.
 
If you are looking for information on other export products, check out the ELIS catalogue resources at:
http://ets.kohalibrary.com/cgi-bin/koha/opac-search.pl?q=export+products

Thursday, 1 April 2010

"Clusters are the building blocks..."

Professor Michael Porter made this statement, which in full reads: 'Clusters are the building blocks of a productive, innovative economy'.   A cluster consists of a cluster core of highly specialised forms within the same industry.  Closely linked to this core are specialist supporting forms which supply services to it.   New Zealand has a number of clusters, some of which have focused on developing international markets for their cluster members.

I have compiled a Pathfinder entitled "Industry Clusters in New Zealand" so that you can look and see where these clusters are, which industries they cover and of the clusters listed which are currently engaged in international trade.  It is worth noting that Wellington has developed at least five clusters covering engineering, technology, manufacturing and the film industry.

The Pathfinder is available from the New Zealand School of Export FREE downloads page in pdf format:

http://www.export.ac.nz/freedownloads.html

Since it is possible that some of the information may be out of date, or incomplete, your comments and corrections would be appreciated.

Tuesday, 30 March 2010

New website: Doing Business with New Zealand

Photo of Civic Square, Wellington 19 February 2009.  Photographer: Nzgrobanite. Source: Wikimedia Commons
The MarketNewZealand website has been re-launched with a new name: Doing Business with New Zealand and a new URL: http://business.newzealand.com/

This site is a good first source of information about doing business with New Zealand companies.   It gives background information on the New Zealand economy and export industries.

Sunday, 28 March 2010

It's the right time to enrol in the Diploma of International Trade

With our flexistart enrolment system, the next Diploma programme offered by the New Zealand School of Export will begin on April 1st, 2010.  If you have been holding back, letting the year get underway, NOW is good.   To obtain an enrolment form go to:

http://www.export.ac.nz/enrolnow.html

If you have any questions please contact us, or if you want to see how studying for the Diploma has been for others, read their endorsements.  A number of these exporters have now completed the Diploma.

http://www.export.ac.nz/endorsements.html

Contact details for the New Zealand School of Export are on the sidebar, or on our website at: http://www.export.ac.nz/contactus.html

And don't forget that we have Scholarships available too - check these at: http://www.export.ac.nz/financialassistance.html

Saturday, 27 March 2010

New Zealand Hong-Kong CEP signed?



This week Minister of Trade Tim Groser has gone to Hong Kong and it is expected that the Hong Kong New Zealand Closer Economic Partnership will be signed.   Neither the MFAT site or the Beehive website had any information on that at the time that I am writing this post.

The MFAT website does of course have information on the agreement to be signed at:

http://www.mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/Trade-Agreements/Hong-Kong/index.php  and  New Zealand and Hong Kong recently signed an Arrangement on Cooperation in Wine-related Business and have concluded negotiations for an Arrangement on Cooperation between Audio-Visual (Film and Digital Entertainment) Industries.

There is a report on the expecting signing at:
http://www.nbr.co.nz/article/hong-kong-free-trade-agreement-be-signed-120487

Given the importance of Hong Kong not only in trade, and perhaps in the freedom of information, this agreement is potentially really important.

Friday, 26 March 2010

Revised Edition of Export Support Pathfinder in ELIS

If you have used the Export Support Pathfinder which was last revised in 2009, please download the newly revised version which was put on the School website on 24 March 2010.   Some organisations which are no longer operating have been deleted and two new business councils which can offer support to exporters were added.

Go to the FREE Downloads page at: http://www.export.ac.nz/freedownloads.html
and update this resource NOW.  

If you know of other organisations which could be service to the international trade community and which could enhance this Pathfinder, please let me know email: graeme@export.ac.nz

Thursday, 25 March 2010

Business teaching at University

Recently we had a visitor from North America at the NZ School of Export, and in the course of chatting our Director Rom Rudzki made this statement:

'business should not be taught in universities'

This is a pretty challenging thought since many exporters will have done business degrees in our universities or polytechnics.   Did your business course make you think?  Has it served you well in your own business?  Let us know what you think - post a comment NOW

Tuesday, 16 March 2010

Updated Pathfinder on NZ Government & Legislation NOW AVAILABLE

Go to http://www.export.ac.nz/freedownloads.html to get the newly revised edition of the New Zealand Government & Legislation Pathfinder.   If you have already downloaded the 2008 version, please replace it with the 2010 edition which contains new and revised material.   For those involved in international trade it is essential to keep abreast of government changes and initiatives.  Using this Pathfinder is a quick way of knowing where to go and which websites to look at.

Monday, 15 March 2010

Who Exports to China?

Ever wondered who exports to China?  There are obviously many New Zealand companies who are, but whom we don't hear about.  The New Zealand School of Export has compiled a preliminary list of small and medium enterprises who are currently exporting to China.   It is available on the FREE Downloads page at:

http://www.export.ac.nz/freedownloads.html

If you can add to the information on this list, your information would be gratefully received.

Friday, 12 March 2010

Nuggets of Information for the Exporter

Photo from Wikimedia Commons by Ikiwaner.

Every now and again one finds pieces of information which are nuggets - really worthwhile pieces that should be shared either by blogging them or emailing on to a colleague or printing off for sending around the staff.

Such a piece comes from David Mahon Managing Director, Mahon China Investment Management Limited. He has written a short piece entitled China and New Zealand.   Probably there is nothing entirely new in it but its brevity and encouraging tone is worth reading and thinking about.  It is not often that the Government and Public Service get accolades like this:  New Zealand's trade policy and ongoing diplomacy is, however, well ahead of the nations's companies in China.

It is also challenging: 'Brand New Zealand' has yet to be established in China in many industries; now is the time to do so.   

The bit that caught my eye was:  New Zealand companies need not wait for Chinese investors to seek them out; they should instead be assessing the relevant sectors in China and undertaking due diligence...


You can find  the full text at:


http://www.mahonchina.com/ChinaNZ/China%20and%20New%20Zealand%20Report.pdf

 

Saturday, 6 March 2010

Seaweek 2010: Fish for the Future - “Tiakina ngā tupuranga whakaheke” March 7-14, 2010

 
Seaweek is an annual event run by the NZ Association for Environmental Education that allows New Zealanders to come together and, celebrate the sea. It provides a wide range of opportunities for people to learn about our fantastic marine environment and share their experiences of the sea.
Seaweek is about exciting and inspiring all New Zealanders to renew their connection with the sea. It’s not just for children or those involved with formal education – it’s a time for all of us to get to know our ocean, its habits, characteristics and inhabitants.
As exporters we are very dependent on the sea – it is part of our supply chain.  Seaweek 2010 might be used by us to think about whether those involved with international trade take the sea and its shores for granted?  Do our shippers respect the sea as a shared environment?   Do the vessels used to ship our goods harm the environment? .
The photo above which comes from Wikimedia Commons shows the  container ship (the Kota Jaya,under a Hong Kong flag) in the Port of Auckland, Auckland City, New Zealand.
It was taken on 18 March 2008 by Ingolfson(?)  who has released the photo for public use. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ports_of_Auckland_Container_Shipping.jpg.



Friday, 5 March 2010

Chile Trade Statistics 2009: Major Chilean Exports Include Fruits, Copper and Fish

While Chile copes with the aftermath of the deadly earthquake and tsunami, and the Western Pacific thinks about its response to consequent tsunami warnings, it is worth thinking about Chile's international trading situation as compiled by Daniel Workman:


Chile Trade Statistics 2009: Major Chilean Exports Include Fruits, Copper and Fish

Wednesday, 3 March 2010

ACTA Negotiations - Call for submissions

The following is the call for submissions from the Minister of Commerce on the next round of negotiations of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement.  These negotiations have caused some disquiet in the past and it is worth reading the Ministry of Economic Development's background material.

Minister calls for submissions on Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement
2 March 2010


Commerce Minister Simon Power is calling for submissions on a range of intellectual property proposals in the digital arena to help develop the proposed Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA).
This is the third round of public consultations on ACTA, and New Zealand will be hosting Round 8 of the ACTA negotiations in Wellington from 12-16 April.
Digital enforcement measures will be one of the topics that will be discussed by delegations from Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Singapore, Switzerland, Morocco, and the US.
“Intellectual property rights infringement is changing in nature with the development of technology. Therefore, enforcement measures need to be constantly reviewed to ensure they remain effective.
“I encourage interested parties to provide submissions to help set a higher benchmark for the enforcement of intellectual property rights.”

The Ministry of Economic Development’s discussion paper can be found at: http://www.med.govt.nz/templates/MultipageDocumentTOC____42582.aspx

Submissions about digital enforcement can be sent to: trademarks@med.govt.nz

The closing date for submissions is Wednesday 31 March 2010.

Monday, 1 March 2010

New Zealand India Free Trade Agreement

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is still keen to hear from any interested exporters with regard to the NZ-India FTA.   If you are keen to make a submission send it in by 15 March 2010.

You can use the form at: http://www.mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/Trade-Agreements/India/index.php to make your submission.

Friday, 26 February 2010

American Trade Policy & Strategy

Here is the link to the text of President Obama's State of the Union address in which he launched the NEI (National Export Initiative).   See page 4 in particular.   From a New Zealand point of view there are concerns that this may lead to more protectionist policies by the US.

The second link is to a video clip featuring the Presidents speech.
ttp://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/28/us/politics/28obama.text.html?pagewanted=4  State of the Union address p.4

http://www.ustr.gov/about-us/press-office/blog/2010/january/president-obama-lays-out-export-initiative-create-jobs

At least the US has a strategy which is more than can be said for New Zealand !

Monday, 22 February 2010

Exporting the Kiwi way

US marketing award for export strategy paper

This article on a paper by Professor Sylvie Chetty and Professor Colin Campbell Hunt of Otago University, revealed that New Zealand firms do not follow textbook approaches to exporting. Instead they usually follow one of three paths:

1. a regional model of launching say into Australia

2. a ‘born global’ strategy of going international within two years of starting up

3. a global model of developing a strong domestic market and launching out slowly.

Is this the Kiwi way?

Tuesday, 9 February 2010

Investing in skills!!

Last Friday 5 February 2010, I heard Phil O'Reilly of Business New Zealand say to Catherine Ryan on her Nine to Noon radio programme: "If there is ever a time to invest in skills, it is now."   Exporting skills don't seem to be getting much of a look-in......   Listen to the podcast from Radio New Zealand: http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/20100205

China Briefing Magazine Moves to Pay For View | China Briefing News

China Briefing Magazine Moves to Pay per View

Unfortunately if your company has been receiving this complimentary electronic magazine, you will now have to pay for it. A great pity because it was very informative and accessible. It will now be US$10.00 per issue.

Thursday, 4 February 2010

Technology 3rd biggest export industry?

On Tuesday the Dominion Post published a report by Ben Heather entitled Adaptable technology firms show the way through the recession Business Day section p. C1.
His first paragraph stated: 'Technology was New Zealand's third-biggest export industry last year, outpacing wine and meat exports, a report says. That report was the TIN100 2009 Report.

Technology Investment Network (TIN) publishes an annual report. The 2009 report is a benchmarking study of the country's largest (by revenue) globally focused technology companies in the areas of High Tech Manufacturing, ICT and Biotechnology.

Readers of this blog who have looked again at the Top Ten Exports post from last year, will find it difficult to compare this statement with that list, because the Top Ten post focused on products as opposed to industries. Presumably 'globally focused companies' are those which are exporting?

Friday, 22 January 2010

ICD - International Customs Day

Customs organisations worldwide celebrate International Customs Day (ICD) each year on 26 January. This marks the day of the first official meeting of the Customs Co-operation Council, now known as the World Customs Organization, which has 169 member states.

In New Zealand ICD will mark 170 years of Customs protecting New Zealand’s borders.   This year’s International Customs Day is about recognising partnerships between Customs and business, and includes interesting, lively, and educational activities including:

* a special focus on counterfeit goods including how to tell the real from the fake

* the kinds of unusual plants and animals that smugglers attempt to trade illegally

* detector dog demonstrations

* x-ray machine displays

* weapons seized at the border

* exhibits showing the methods drug smugglers use to try and beat border security.

Go to events in:

Wellington
Civic Square
Tuesday 26 January 2010
11am – 4pm

OR

Auckland
Viaduct Harbour
Saturday 30 January 2010
11am – 5pm
 
and checkout the website of New Zealand Customs: http://www.customs.govt.nz/icd/default.htm

Thursday, 21 January 2010

New Zealand Wineries Case Studies - FREE!


Go to the Free Downloads page on the New Zealand School of Export website for the latest edition of the Wineries Case Studies:

http://www.export.ac.nz/freedownloads.html

Photo from Wikimedia Commons (karinl)  Central Otago vineyard near Felton Road.

Wednesday, 20 January 2010

Exporting is a hidden activity


Waireinga = Leaping water; also called  The Bridal Veil Falls, Waikato, New Zealand.  Photo: F.Siddle 15 January 2010

What is the link you might ask?  I have just spent a few days in Hamilton and the Waikato Region.   We visited this stunning waterfall where the water falls 55 metres to the pool below.   I had not heard of these falls - they were a hidden delight to be discovered - maybe they are in Lonely Planet or another guide which I hadn't consulted.   It occurred to me that exporting  in New Zealand and probably in other countries is an activity where companies just get on with it.  The Waikato has a number of exporting companies but they are unseen and unsung.  

Ironically it is often products which trumpet themselves are being of 'export quality', 'for export only', export this or that, but these words don't really impinge on our lives.   Out there there are many  companies  doing the hard work which keeps our economy going .

Wednesday, 13 January 2010

BBC News - Who wins from China's export growth?

BBC News - Who wins from China's export growth?

China is now probably the world's biggest exporter according to its official News Agency. But what is more amazing is that Germany held top exporter spot especially when you compare their populations: Germany has only 82 million people whereas the PRC has 1,338 million

Monday, 11 January 2010

Congratulations to New Zealand School of Export graduate

Pierre Schindler currently working for Fonterra in Auckland has become one the New Zealand School of Export's latest graduates from the Diploma of International Trade course.   Congratulations!   Pierre who received the Dr Robin W. Smith Scholarship is happy to share his experiences of doing the Diploma with other prospective and current students.   Contact the School in order to link up with Pierre: info@export.ac.nz   If you are interested in reading about the Course and the Scholarships available go to: http://www.export.ac.nz/ NOW.    You can start your studies for the Diploma at the beginning of every month using our flexible enrolment and study programme.