TRADE WITH THE EAST

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21619, 11 October 1933, Page 15

TRADE WITH THE EAST

Sir, —I have just been reading with considerable interest an article in tho Auckland Weekly News of August 9, with reference to trade with tho East. May I quote tho following extract: —"In spite of assertion to the contrary, the Dairy Board is not convinced that New Zealand can extend its sales of dairy produce in tho East to any appreciable extent, according to a statement made by tho secretary to the board, Mr. T. C. Brash, in addressing a conference oi dairy company representatives." My comment on this, as far as Malaya is concerned, is that it is definitely far from true. Mr. Brash lias obtained information from which ho draws tho above conclusion from agents, as the article states. I can give my opinion on the subject as one on the spot and as one who is trading solely in Now Zealand goods. The argument is put forward, and has been on many occasions, that the shipping difficulty prevents New Zealand obtaining a fair share of Eastern trade. In the case of frozen produce this obstaclo certainly arises; but it is not an insuperable one, and it can be quite easily overcome if the New Zealand producer or those who act for him have sufficient energy. With regard to tinned dairy produce, such as butter, condensed and evaporated milk, aliccse and honey, the difference in freight is not so great that Now Zealand cannot compete with Australia in this market. I know this from my own personal experience. New Zealand tinned foods have a very good name out here, and the demand is increasing greatly. This trado will undoubtedly become very large in time. The frozen produce trade will never do so, however, unless thoso interested overcome their usual attitude of apathetic conservatism. Or is it fright? I>. H. Mokrison. Seremban, Federated Malay States.