FTIB-NZ trade mission opens closed door for garment manufacturers

21 Mar '06

3 min read

Meanwhile FTIB Chief Executive Lailun Khan stated that there was a renewed interest from New Zealand in regards to TCF trading with Fiji and this has resulted from New Zealanders looking at other countries like Fiji to source from other than China, the usual market which is now focusing on the United States, therefore creating a possibility for countries like Fiji.

Mrs Khan also stated that with Fiji's proximity to New Zealand, orders could reach New Zealand with a fast turn-around time of two to three weeks from the normal three months New Zealand currently has with other countries like China.

However Mrs Khan said she was optimistic, Government would assist in facilitating better trade agreements with New Zealand under SPARTECA.

"It would be ideal if Fiji can have the same agreement effective from the 1st of January 2007 between New Zealand and Australia which does away with the Rules of Origin and moves toward substantial transformation, so we hope that Government would be able to negotiate something similar for Fiji as this will greatly enhance our trade possibilities with these two countries".

Mrs Khan further said there would also have to be more work undertaken by Fiji as issues like transportation would have to be considered as these trade deals would mean increased air freight requirements or cargo capacity etcetera via shipping arrangements.

Fiji Trade and Investment Board

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