TRADE WITH SOUTH AFRICA.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXI, Issue 291, 7 December 1900, Page 4

TRADE WITH SOUTH AFRICA.

In pursuance of the expressed intention of fostering- trade between this colony and South, Africa, the Government are calling for tenders for a line of steamers The specifications, which appear in another portion of this issue, stipulate for a class of vessel admirably suited for such a service-^if anything- too expensive for the small beginnings with which it is necessary avc, should be content. Competent auth-

orities are unanimously of opinion that tin extensive market for butter, frozen meat, and other produce, will gradually develop in South Africa as the country becomes more settled. New Zealand and Australia tire both favourably situated for availing' themselves of this new outlet for over-pro-duction. Unfortunately, the Argentine, which is already a rival in British markets, has in this ease also a considerable handicap in the matter of distance. This advantage, combined with the facilities for cheap production which have rendered this vast South American territory a dangerous competitor in English markets, make it urgently necessary for New Zealandersj to bestir themselves if they are to get a share ol' the trade. The prompt action of the Government in moving in the direction of obtaining the best facilities for transport is io be commended. It is sincerely to be hoped the ni#antageous position in which steamship companies at present find themselves will not have the effect of a lack of competition for the proposed service. The Government adopt a wise course in assuming the responsibility in initialing a trade, but would not be justified in paying an exorbitant price. Unless a. reasonable offer i.i made to fulfil Government conditions private enterprise will be forced to seek out indirect channels through which to ship such South African produce torders as may be secured.