Although the Russians may have the cynical motive of getting WTO recognition as a result, NZ has nevertheless scored a big coup in becoming the first country to start negotiating a free trade deal with Russia. NZ currently exports $200m of goods to Russia a year, but the Russians are desperate for food. As always however things will not happen overnight. It could be two years before any appreciable benefits are seen - if the talks are successful. Most NZ exports to Russia are currently agricultural and they face stiff trade barriers.

- - -NOT A SUBSCRIBER? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

PROFIT AND PROSPER IN THE TOUGH TIMES AHEAD…

THE MAIN REPORT BUSINESS
Fresh thinking, trends and ideas for everyone in business. Covers the full spectrum of business matters with special emphasis on major trends, solutions, the economy, and political and legislative action which may affect you. Also strategic planning, leadership, management, marketing, customer satisfaction, employee relations. It’s where you find your inspiration! Published each Monday 46 times per year.

http://www.themainreport.co.nz/home/special-introductory-offer
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The talks will also include discussions around extending free trade to Belarus and Kazakhstan. The Russians would be major beneficiaries - a FTA would be a first for Russia, which is not yet a member of the WTO. It is the world’s fifth-largest… food importer and among the world’s largest importers of meat and dairy products. Around 11m Russians take their holidays aboard each year, but less than 1% come to NZ. There is also export education potential.

 Copyright © The Main Report Group