NEW MARKETS

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 55, Issue 242, 26 July 1935, Page 3

NEW MARKETS

TRADE WITH THE EAST?

THE QUESTION OF SHIPPING.

(Per Press Association). DUNEDIN, July 25

The development of better shipping services before new markets could be opened up overseas was discussed by the Minister for Industries and Commerce (the Hon. It. Masters) in an interview.

The Minister said that at present he was not concentrating on the development of new markets so much as an negotiations for better shipping facilities to carry trade. It was not sound business to appoint trade commissioners and endeavour to impro.ve trade contracts before continuity of supply could be assured. Increased trade overseas could only be achieved on the basis of a regular shipping seivice at competitive freight rates. “At present,” said Mr Masters, “I am concentrating the whole of my efforts on securing a satisfactory shipping connection with the East. If possible, it is my desire to arrange for calls at the four chief New Zealand ports, and at Java, Hong-Kong, Shanghai, Japan, and also at the Philip-

pines.” ' It was obvious, he said, that a satisfactory freight service bad to be established before any new development could be made in trade. As a result of the pi'esent conditions, piodueers were labouring under a great disadvantage, and be hoped that a scheme could be formulated which would realise his ideals and extend, the present markets of the Dominion.