Media Release
22 February 2008
Chamber Supports FTA with Korea
The Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce today welcomed the news that an independent study had concluded that
significant benefits would flow to both Korea and New Zealand from the negotiation of an FTA.
“The negotiation of an FTA with Korea is a very high priority for this Chamber”, said Chamber CEO Charles Finny.
“Korea is a very important trading partner, which makes it all the more serious when New Zealand exporters find their
competitiveness eroded by the negotiation of an FTA with another country.
“Korea has an FTA with Chile, and as a result, in many areas, particularly horticulture and wine, it is very difficult
for New Zealand to compete in Korea at present. What is more worrying is the FTA that is close to finality between Korea
and the US.
“The Chamber hopes that a negotiation between New Zealand and Korea can be commenced as quickly as possible,” Charles
Finny concluded.
ENDS