N.Z. AND FIJI.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 127, 1 June 1938, Page 5

N.Z. AND FIJI.

FALLING IMPORTS. CONCERN FELT IN SUVA. I (From Our Own Correspondent.) SL VA, May 25. While a pr ferential tariff operated to give New Zealand imports into Fiji special preference over those from Australia. in recognition of the fact that New Zealand took most of Fiji's banana exports, which were not admitted to Australia, New Zealand trade with Fiji increased considerably. Unfortunately the Ottawa agreement precluded the continuation of such preference and the advantage to New Zealand was lost. This position was commented upon in letter to the Auckland Chamber of Commei ee from the Suva chamber, which stated that the falling off was not regarded lightly in Fiji. The Suva chamber pointed out that Australian prices were lower than New Zealand, hence the local preference for Australian goods. In 1930 Fiji's imports from Australia of goods which New Zealand could not supply were more than double all the goods supplied by New Zealand. Flour and bulk and bottled beer were mentioned in this connection. The light ales _ necessary for consumption in the tropics, it was stated, were not obtainable from New Zealand. With the removal of the preference, the lettei continued, many types of goods were now being obtained from Australia These included clothing as well as food Smaller factors connected with shipping were also mentioned. These included the decision of waters iders not to load cargo for Matson vessels travel ling between British ports, and the rule of the C. and A. line preventing the carrying of live stock in their vessels There was an earnest desire in Fiji tc increase and foster trade with New Zealand, the letter concluded. The Fiji chamber would be glad to support practical measures for improvement.