Business and trade

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), are the two leading government agencies in the trade arena. They have two distinct roles; MFAT opens the door to foreign markets by overcoming or reducing trade access barriers, and NZTE helps New Zealand businesses, by providing export development consultancy services.

MFAT and Trade Policy

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is the New Zealand Government’s lead trade policy agency. In conjunction with its network of Embassies and High Commissions offshore, it is responsible for conducting the New Zealand Government’s business with foreign governments and international organisations, such as the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

One of MFAT’s key trade responsibilities is to negotiate market access for New Zealand goods and services and to maintain and enforce that access.

For more information on the latest developments and activities across the trade agenda, see BusinessLink, a bi-monthly Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade publication.

NZTE - working with businesses

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is the New Zealand Government’s national economic development agency. Through its network of offices worldwide, NZTE aims to grow New Zealand’s economy by building the capability of businesses and regions and facilitating their sustained and profitable participation in overseas markets.

Investment New Zealand, a specialist unit within New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, works to attract investment into New Zealand which will provide wider benefits to the New Zealand economy.