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Strong Economic Fundamentals

Economic efficiency, stability, and competitiveness

New Zealand has completed more than a decade of economic restructuring, and now has a stable economy well geared for long term international competitiveness. The privatisation of utilities and state services like postage and rail services has created one of the world’s most efficient, competition-friendly economies. A free and independent press ensures corporate and government decision-making is transparent and fair.

This openness and competitiveness extends to international companies doing business in New Zealand; the country ranks third in the world in ease of cross-border transactions, according to the World Competitiveness Yearbook, 2005. The New Zealand Government is proactive in providing an environment that enables international investors to relocate, and/or collaborate with New Zealand companies.

Free Trade

New Zealand ’s close trade and legal relationship with Australia gives businesses operating from New Zealand duty free access to a population of 24 million.

Our free trade relationships, including recent economic co-operation agreements with Singapore and Thailand, and world-first negotiations with the People’s Republic of China, will significantly increase the size of the New Zealand consumer market.

Reports & Publications

A Land of Extraordinary Opportunity
As Investment New Zealand's flagship publication, this document provides a succinct overview of New Zealand's compelling business advantages.

Competitiveness Benchmarking Data Set
These comprehensive data sets benchmark New Zealand’s competitiveness as an investment destination against other OECD countries.

New Zealand in Profile and New Zealand Business Costs
These two data sets succinctly capture New Zealand’s national profile and business environment. Data is based on statistics sourced from government economic departments and private sector service providers.





Key Economic Facts

A selection of New Zealand vital statistics and key facts

  • 4.7 percent real gross domestic product (GDP) growth (year ending March 2008).
  • 15.9 percent growth in inward foreign direct investment (FDI) stock in 2006-07.
  • Ranked 3rd worldwide in overall economic freedom (Fraser Institute Economic Freedom of the World Annual Report, 2008).
  • No capital gains tax.