NZ strengthens promotion to hike up exports to PHL

CEBU, Philippines - Recognizing the huge market of Filipinos consuming New Zealand products, the New Zealand Embassy to the Philippines is strengthening its promotion to increase their export to the Philippines.

The office of the New Zealand Embassy led by Ambassador Andrew Matheson has started an aggressive marketing campaign in Cebu dubbed as “Experience New Zealand” in partnership with Radisson Blu Hotel.

In an interview with Matheson, he said that there are two things that the New Zealand government has decided to promote in the Philippines, its food and beverage products, and its attractive tourism advantage.

Although, there are already a lot of products available in the market from New Zealand, Matheson said there are still more quality food and beverage exported by his country to other nations, that Filipinos can enjoy with.

According to Matheson the food and beverage industry has put New Zealand on the world map.

“New Zealand exports high-quality produce around the world including the Philippines, one of its key trading partners,” said Matheson.

In 2010, New Zealand food and beverage exports to the Philippines totaled approximately US$475 million, a 30 percent increase from the previous year.

“New Zealand produce is particularly good match for Cebu, as a premier resort destination offering world class cuisine. We’re bringing a taste of New Zealand to Cebu,” said acting New Zealand trade commissioner to the Philippines Amy Colayco.

The week-long festival at the Radisson Blu Hotel which started on February 15-20 showcases not only the best of New Zealand food and beverage but also a taste of what’s in store for visitors to New Zealand in September, as it hosts Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011).

The Ambassador said it is high time for Filipinos to know more about the culture, and amazing beauty of New Zealand by exploring the place, in time of the RWC 2011.

At present, the Philippines is largely exporting dairy, meat, wine, Kiwi fruits to the Philippines. Matheson said the volume has increased over the years.

Meanwhile, Matheson announced that the New Zealand 2011 Business Club is specially set up to accord a host of trade, investment and networking opportunities, and a chance to experience the best of New Zealand business when visiting the RWC 2011 in September.

The club seeks to connect visiting individuals with key players in sectors such as food and beverage, Information Communication Technology (ICT), specialized manufacturing, aviation and creative industries.

“Visitors will be able to meet local business leaders in a relaxed setting,” added Matheson.

Last year, Forbes ranked New Zealand as the third-best country to do business in, based on criteria such as trade and monetary freedom, property rights, innovation, technology and market performance.— (FREEMAN)