EXPORT OF N.Z. GOODS

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24868, 7 May 1946, Page 4

EXPORT OF N.Z. GOODS

MANUFACTURERS SEE NEW OPPORTUNITY

EFFECT OF WAGE RISES IN BRITAIN

The opinion that large increases in wages in Britain and America would give New Zealand manufacturers the opportunity to build up an export trade was expressed in evidence given to the select committee on population by Mr J. Abel, representing the Manufacturers’ Federation.

“The abnormal rise in wages in Great Britain and America has changed the complexion of New Zealand’s ability to export her manufactured goods,” said Mr Abel. “Before the war the low wages paid in Britain made it almost impossible for New Zealand manufacturers to export their goods, but to-day the position is very different.

“A „very large number of goods are being produced in New Zealand more cheaply than in Britain, and, as it would appear unlikely that the basic increase given workers in Britain will be decreased in the near future. New Zealand manufacturers have tp-day, and will have in the future, ar excellent opportunity for building up an export trade, particularly in those industries where raw materials are produced in New Zealand.” Mr Abel said that the larger the population in New Zealand the- easier it would be to build up an export trade. An assured home market had very great-advantages for the exporter and definitely lowered costs.