Business & Society

BusinessNZ welcomes the Labour Party’s public support for the NZ-India Free Trade Deal, saying it represents our best chance to secure meaningful access to one of the world’s most important growth markets. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says trade has long been a strength of New Zealand’s economic policy, and...

The BusinessNZ Network and leaders across New Zealand’s export sector are calling on all political parties to back the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement, warning the country cannot afford to miss a major economic opportunity. An open letter published today and signed by 28 exporters and industry associations outlines the significance of getting the deal across the line as global uncertainty, rising protectionism and...

BusinessNZ’s latest Planning Forecast shows the economy finally emerging from stagnation and GDP projected to grow at just under 3% per year to 2027, with improving momentum across manufacturing, construction, and tourism. BusinessNZ Chief Economist John Pask says the recovery is welcome, but New Zealand is heading into a decade of difficult...

A new report by BusinessNZ calls for bold, long-term planning to enable a greater New Zealand by 2050. The report titled New Zealand 2050: A Long-Term Vision, makes a case for a bipartisan national plan to redefine NZ’s competitiveness, social cohesion, and global standing by 2050. Starting with NZ’s looming...

The Government’s announced changes to procurement rules should give local and small businesses an edge in winning valuable contracts and further boosting the economy, BusinessNZ says. Chief Executive Katherine Rich says Government spending and procurement can be a powerful economic lever. “Each year, government agencies spend approximately $51.5 billion on...

Two new immigration pathways for skilled trades and technicians reinforces the value of trades as part of New Zealand’s economy, BusinessNZ says. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says immigration works alongside local workforce development to better our economy. “By bringing in experienced trade and technical people, businesses can expand their...

Future investment intentions indicate a reasonable level of business confidence, BusinessNZ says. BusinessNZ’s 2025 Business Sentiment Survey shows uncertainty is a key challenge for businesses, but also shows companies planning more investment than last year. The survey of 130 businesses shows 68% intend to authorise the same or more capital...

Today’s announcement from government to reduce regulatory red tape for exporters means competing on the world stage will soon be easier for some Kiwi businesses. By the end of the month, food exporters will no longer need to apply for exemptions from New Zealand rules if their products already meet...

Moves announced by the Government today to modernise New Zealand’s universities will ensure graduates leave with the skills to better innovate and boost our economy, BusinessNZ says. Education, Skills and Immigration Director Rachel Simpson says BusinessNZ supports the introduction of a new tertiary education strategy that places economic growth at the centre of higher...

The announcement of measures making it easier for supermarkets to establish and expand in New Zealand is a step in the right direction, and BusinessNZ would like to see the Government’s approach applied in other sectors of our economy. Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard says encouraging investment and growth in...