‘Rideout’ French threat

Press, 15 April 1986, Page 29

‘Rideout’ French threat

PA Auckland Exporters have been advised to “ride out” the threat by a big French supermarket to take New Zealand goods off its shelves. The advice came from Export Institute’s president, Mr John Lister, who said: "If we say very little, (the ban) will probably die away.”

Edouard Leclerc receatly announced that he Wdd ban New Zealand

imports from his 500 stores until the two French agents convicted of involvement in the Rainbow Warrior bombing were released. Mr Lister said he doubted Mr Leclerc’s claim that he imported New Zealand produce valued at $250 million each year — almost 20 per cent more than the official figure for total imports. Mr Leclerc had said he &

imported indirectly through other countries to avoid clashes with French protectionist groups. Mr Lister said the figures were “a bit fishy.” “If he imports on that scale, I would set up an office next to his and maybe build a factory in Paris. But I would be very surprised if he could import indirectly, with the extra freight costs and middleman’s charges, and remain competitive."