BUYERS SOUGHT OVERSEAS

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31005, 10 March 1966, Page 10

BUYERS SOUGHT OVERSEAS

iNew Zealand Fres« Aetoeiation)

WELLINGTON, March 9.

In New Zealand’s search for more overseas buyers, it was logical that great attention should be focussed on South-east Asia, the Minister of Overseas Trade (Mr Marshall), said today.

Speaking at a briefing session in Wellington for the New Zealand Manufacturers'

Federation trade mission to South-east Asia, Mr Marshall said that with a population about 75 times as large as New Zealand's. South-east Asia was rapidly emerging as a very substantial outlet for the exportable goods of world suppliers—“goods which the area needs and which are vital to its economy.” Mr Marshall said exports of manufactured goods from New Zealand to the countries “to be visited by this mission have increased from £210,974 in 1962-63, to £680.171 in 1964-65. but there is no doubt that these developing coun-

tries offer scope for even greater expansion of our trade.” New Zealand was well known in the area through 5.E.A.T.0., E.C.A.F.E., the Colombo Plan and Volunteer Service Abroad, Mr Marshall said. “An added incentive to the exploitation of trade opportunities in tins area is the introduction by Air New Zealand of a direct air service to South-east Asia. This now brings us even eloser in this market.” The visit coinciding with Air New Zealand’s inaugural 1 flights should assist both parties in promotional activities, Mr Marshall said. Mr Marshall handed over a cheque for £l5OO, a Government grant towards the expenses of the mission.