N.Z. AND JAPAN Trade Increase Proposed

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32343, 8 July 1970, Page 28

N.Z. AND JAPAN Trade Increase Proposed

(N.Z.P.A. Staff Correspondent) TOKYO, July 7. Talks are expected to be held soon on revision of the New Zealand*Japan trade agreement to reduce some tariff and quota restrictions.

The Prime Minister (Sir Keith Holyoake) said today that he had suggested a meeting of trade ministers to thrash out details of the new agreement when he talked with his Japanese counterpart (Mr Sato) this morning. Sir Keith Holyoake later told a National Press Club luncheon that he hoped the new agreement could be completed soon. The Minister for Overseas Trade (Mr Marshall) said last month that New Zealand was prepared to negotiate more liberal conditions of entry for Japanese manufactured goods in return for freer access to Japan for dairy produce and lamb. Addressing the club soon after his one-hour meeting with Mr Sato, Sir Keith Holyoake said: "There is scope for an enormous expansion in the exchange of New Zealand’s primary produce for Japanese manufactured goods.”

He added: “I’m sure the coming years will see great advances in trade between New Zealand and Japan. Our two Governments should be able to remove the obstacles which remain in the same friendly . but business-like spirit which has characterised our dealings over the years."