National has committed to launching negotiations with seven economies over the next five years if returned to government, targeting Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Switzerland and the European Free Trade Association bloc of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and trade spokesperson Todd McClay made the announcement at the Port of Auckland. New Zealand currently exports $1.8 billion worth of goods to the seven markets.
The party has divided the targets into three categories: high-value European economies including Switzerland and EFTA states, large South American economies spanning Brazil to Uruguay, and fast-growing Asian and African economies such as Bangladesh and Nigeria. An additional six markets – South Africa, Turkey, Colombia, Morocco, Sri Lanka and Mauritius – would be pursued over the following decade. The two groups together cover almost a billion people.
"The seven markets we have identified offer huge, untapped opportunities for New Zealand exporters," McClay said. "Our exports to these countries are currently worth just $1.8 billion, demonstrating the scale of the opportunity for our exporters."
"A re-elected National government will prioritise commencing negotiations with each of these seven markets in the next five years to secure better access for Kiwi companies, boost exports, create jobs and lift incomes," he said.
The policy also includes proposals for three AI-powered digital tools to help exporters navigate tariffs and market access requirements, and a 'Next 200' programme focused on 200 high-potential businesses not yet exporting. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise would move to a proactive approach, identifying opportunities and approaching companies rather than waiting for exporters to seek support.
McClay said a deal with Bangladesh would be critical to protecting New Zealand's access as competition intensified, noting the United States had just secured an agreement there. Bangladesh is a major dairy importer.
"I don't know why you would want more US dairy product in your market when you could have the highest-quality, safest in the world from New Zealand," he said.
McClay cited the party's India deal as evidence National could deliver on trade commitments. "Christopher Luxon promised National would get a free trade deal with India in our first term of government. We delivered, despite many saying it couldn't be done," he said.
India's prime minister Narendra Modi arrives in Auckland on 10 July for the first official visit by an Indian leader in 40 years.
McClay said he would like to complete all seven deals within the five-year timeframe, but that ultimately a willing partner was needed on the other side.