ExportNZ is increasing its focus on growing opportunities in India by entering a partnership with the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC).

 Catherine Beard, Executive Director of ExportNZ says the new agreement will create a strong alliance focusing on maximising the benefits of the anticipated freer trading environment (FTA negotiations with India are underway) with one of the world’s fastest growing economies.

 “Working in close co-operation with the INZBC will add huge value to the services we can offer our members. In effect, INZBC will be our specialist unit serving the Indian market.

 “The recent visit by Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Hon Anand Sharma highlighted the potential India holds as a trading partner for New Zealand. As the Minister pointed out, India is a land of limitless opportunities. After meeting with NZ Trade Minister Tim Groser, they agreed that trade could triple from the current $1 billon a year to $3 billon by 2014, and identified tourism and education as key areas for increased cooperation.”

 Wenceslaus Anthony, Chair of INZBC says that the partnership opens up huge opportunities for our members and contributes directly to mainstreaming INZBC activities across all sectors of the economy.

 “We are also working on key partnerships with major India based business associations and all of these will dramatically expand NZ-India trade and add value to the members of both organisations.”

 While ExportNZ and the INZBC will work together offering services and activities to their members, they will retain their individual autonomy and operate independently.