Launched in June 2007, NZIBF brings together business leaders from some of New Zealand’s largest internationally oriented companies together with the country’s peak business organisations.

Collectively, these business leaders from the dairy, meat, seafood, kiwifruit, apples, pears, wine and services industries represent companies and sectors with a combined turnover in excess of $30 billion. The business organisations represent New Zealand’s export, manufacturing and services sectors.

NZIBF is the only forum where these multi-sector leaders gather to discuss strategic trade and investment issues.  The Board meets four times a year and directs NZIBF’s work programme according to a 3-year strategic plan and an annual business plan. NZIBF’s work programme is supported by a range of associate members who receive regular updates, are engaged directly in NZIBF activities and meet at least twice a year with the Board.

Our funding

NZIBF is funded by the private sector through contributions from its Board and associate members. NZIBF receives no government funding for its core operational budget, but may partner with the Government on specific projects.  NZIBF co-funds with the Government the advice and support provided under contract to the New Zealand members of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC). New Zealand companies and business organisations who wish to support NZIBF’s work are invited to contact the Executive Director.

Our role

We exist to improve the environment for trade and investment. We engage directly with the Government, both Ministers and officials, on trade and investment issues and we promote understanding of the importance of freer trade and investment to everyday Kiwis.

We do this through networking and submissions, through liaison with government agencies, through engagement with organisations like ABAC and counterpart business organisations in other economies, through regular contributions to business and trade media and speeches and presentations to public audiences.

We are also proud to support our sister organisations – the NZ US Council and the NZ China Council.

Our annual report

Our most recent annual report may be found here.