21 - Closer Partnership and Collaborative Approaches

Summary

This presentation sought to provide a comprehensive review of the economic, demographic and technological developments in New Zealand with the object of exploring the benefits that Singaporean businesses can accrue from collaboration with New Zealand. Mr Donald Christie attempted to demonstrate how a dynamic population and, small but liberal economy with a favourable geo-political situation can help create a collaborative and innovative culture such as the one in New Zealand.

Mr Christie started the presentation by narrating a remark by the ASEAN Secretary-General Ong Keng Yong in New Zealand. Mr Ong had cautioned New Zealanders that it would be a mistake on their part to think that they could realize major economic growth in the future by relying on dairy and milk products. Christie regarded this as “blunt feedback” that should be taken seriously to avoid complacency. It was with this concern that Christie launched into his primary concern: What can New Zealand offer to its prospective partners in Asia?

To flesh this out Christie elaborated on the emergent trends in New Zealand, starting with demography, which he claimed reveals new dynamic trends. These trends include the fast growth rate among Asian, Pacific and Maori groups which has had the effect of making the country more multicultural and dynamic. He alluded to the dynamism of immigrant groups and how this is a factor in the case of New Zealand with nearly 20 per cent of its population being first generation New Zealanders. Christie also mentioned the role of nearly one million New Zealand passport holders who live overseas who tend to return home with their vast supply of ideas, experience and contacts that contributes to businesses in the country.

Christie described the economic environment in New Zealand, which he argued provided for a suitable business environment. He pointed out that the country has a strong economy and a developed education, health and legal system.