EXPORTS TO CANADA

Taranaki Daily News, 28 November 1934, Page 14

EXPORTS TO CANADA

AN IMPROVED POSITION POSSIBLE BUTTER MARKETS. MR. J. W. COLLINS’ OPINIONS. The effect of the Canada-New Zealand trade treaty, concluded in May, 1932, has generally been helpful to both countries, according to Mr. J. W. Collins, New Zealand Trade Commissioner in Canada, who returned by the Aorangi after an absence of four and a-half years. The disparity in the value of trade, so predominantly in favour of Canada, had been materially corrected, he said. The true test of the effectiveness of the treaty, however, could only be ascertained when more normal economic conditions obtained, but a great deal of exploratory, organising and educational work had been and was being done, sound agencies were being established, and practical demonstration given to buyers of the high quality of New Zealand products not hitherto marketed. New Zealand shippers did not sufficiently realise the necessity and importance of complying with special departmental regulations governing many lines of export, particularly with respect to eggs, canned foods, fruit and vegetables, said Mr. Collins. It would be his duty to meet the merchants, manufacturers and shippers concerned and explain these requirements, which had reference to weight, packing, labelling, inspection, certificates and processing. New Zealand was gaining goodwill among all sections in Canada, but there were, unfortunately, many matters requiring care and correction to bring about steady sales. Several grievances had been entrusted to him to adjust during his present visit, and these matters would be discussed with the parties concerned. EXPANSION OF TRADE. Dealing with general conditions in Canada, Mr. Collins said a considerable improvement had taken place during the last 12 months, and the feeling was general that the upward trend would continue. Canada’s external trade was rapidly expanding after reaching record low levels in 1932. For each succeeding month of the current year, Canada’s trade, particularly with other parts of the Empire, had consistently improved and substantial gains in value of importations were also recorded. The task of building up and maintaining trade from New Zealand to Canada had proved difficult, largely due to the prevailing uncertainty as to current and future values, and to the cheapness and availability of raw materials domestically produced. However, in the sales of raw wool and hides New Zealand had obtained leadership over other countries, and during the last two years the buying of pelts and skins had assumed considerable proportions. Prior to the establishment of the Trade Commissioner service no sustained attempt had been made to exploit certain New Zealand commodities, but the range was now expanding and the future prospects looked decidedly promising. BUTTER TO JAMAICA. Referring to his visit to Jamaica a year ago, on the instruction of the Minister of Industries and Commerce, the Hon. R. Masters, Mr; Collins said it was undoubtedly well-timed and the investigation should prove valuable in fostering trade which promised to be reciprocal and of mutual advantage. Already the contacts made and the information given to importers in Jamaica were showing good results. The main item of ■ New Zealand export was butter. In 1929 Canada supplied 89 per cent, of Jamaica’s requirements, and New Zealand 5 per cent. The progressive totals of butter sold from New Zealand during the last three years were: 1931, 582,9031 b; 1932, 670,9031 b; 1933, 793,1601 b. This last total would be considerably exceeded during the current year. The New Zealand share reached 89 per cent, in 1933, a remarkable achievement in so short a period. The quality and cheapness of New Zealand butter to-day had gained not merely the favour of the European population of Jamaica, but the natives were also making large purchases. This taste for butter would have in the future a far-reaching effect on the hitherto favoured margarine. “The marketing of dairy produce in the Panama Canal Zone, in Mexico, British Guiana, Trinidad and territories in South America, which can be economically served from the canal, has been given special attention,” said Mr. Collins. “This foundation work should result in widening and establishing new markets, especially when world conditions are more stable and prosperous. “Just prior to my leaving for New Zealand, I made close inquiries into trade conditions on the Pacific Coast, especially as to butter requirements. Owing to drought conditions and cattle slaughtering, dairy products are likely to be in short supply during the winter. Stocks are abnormally low and prices for butter are steadily expanding, reaching 32 cents a pound wholesale at the beginning of this month.”