EMPIRE TRADE

Hokitika Guardian, 29 December 1932, Page 5

EMPIRE TRADE

DOMINION FRUIT

NEGOTIATIONS WITH JAPAN.

(Per Press Association — copyright.) WELLINGTON, December 28. Negotiations are at present proceeding between the New Zealand Government and the Japanese Government, with a view to the removal of certain regulations which exist in Japan, and which have the effect of preventing the Japanese ports being used an clearing centres for fruit from New Zealand.

New Zealand fruit growers have been endeavouring to build up an export trade with China and otiier Eastern countries, but the Japanese regulations have had a restrictive effect. New Zealand is now awaiting a reply from the Japanese Government. A similar difficulty existed for some time with regard to Australia, where the quarantine regulations restricted the trans-shipment ot pears and apples to the East, but, as the result of representations by the New Zealand Government, these restrictions have now been removed. The Commonwealth authorities have expressed their willingness to assist New Zealand as far as possible.

CANADA AND GERMANY,

TEMPORARY TRADE AGREEMENT OTTAWA, December 27. Canada and Germany have made a three months’ temporary trade agreement. For the first time in thirty-five years, Canadian goods will be accorded the “favoured nation” treatment by Germany.

Canada will receive the conventional tariff of Germany and the general tariff, where ho conventional rates exist. Canada grants her intermediate tariff on German goods. It is hoped to conclude negotiations for a definite treaty before the expiration of the three months’ term.

RESTRICTION ON IMPORTS

FURTHER ADVICE RECEIVED,

WELLINGTON, December 28

Mr David Jones, chairman of the Meat Board, lias: received the following cable from the Board’s London office: “The Minister of Agriculture announced in the House of Commons that, in order to maintain prices, the British Government fully realises the necessity of the continuing of the voluntary emergency restrictions on meat and bacon?) imports, which will expire early in January.” Mr Jones stated that it was very important that the New Zealand farmers should realise that the definite intention of the British Government is to maintain prices.

He added that negotiation® were now proceeding and that the New Zealand Meat Board is in close touch with the London office, and that the Board expects to be in ia. position to make a statement within the next few days.