TRADE WITH JAPAN.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XL, Issue 1854, 18 July 1918, Page 4

TRADE WITH JAPAN.

MR. HOLMES’ VIEWS. It is interesting to note that as far back as 1901, Mr John Holmes reported to the Chambers of Commerce of New Zealand, the potentialities of the future trade with Japan, and he pointed out in his addresses how difficult it was to introduce among other things samples of New Zealand tow, commonly known in England as toppes, but at that time was rejected as useless for any purpose. With the enterprise displayed by the late trade commissioner for New Zealand, Mr John Holmes, he sent some samples of this so-called rejected fibre which the Japanese received and returned as unfit for any commercial use. Not discouraged by the reports from Japan, he continued his efforts, and on tiio principle “that it was darkest before dawn,” replied saying the time would not be far distant when iierhaps the New Zealand tow —the refuse of New Zealand hemp would be utilised by the manufacturers of this country. Mr Holmes continued his persistence, recognising in those days there were more than forty millions of people who would perhaps some day become purchasers of staple products such as wool, hemp, tallow, and perhaps frozen meats. Upon his return, after seven trips round the world, he urged the Government of New Zealand upon the great importance of securing some connection linking up the Eastern trade with New Zealand, and he was the first to propose that as the P. and 0. and the Orient lines might be trading with Japan as a lasting benefit to his country. It is interesting to know that Japen is making strides to secure Australian, South African and distant New Zealand trade, throughout the world, and we are prepared to meet any reasonable plan from the Australian importers and give them compensation on a reasonable basis against any unfair exports from that great country of Japan now increased to 73 millions. This will in time establish a confidence in every purchaser, however large or small, and with his worldwide knowledge he knows no country throughout the world whore a question of dispute between manufacturer and importer can with confidence be referred to the Government of a country except Japan. This proves beyond any question of doubt that His Majesties Imperial Japanese Government in Tokio are able and willing to protect the buyers beyond the seas.