"New Zealand is a trading nation that depends on successful exporting to maintain and grow our wealth. The terms of trade matter greatly to us. The CPTPP will reduce the tariff burden on our producers, allowing New Zealand and New Zealanders to earn more overseas, while growing jobs and businesses here at home," Mr Hope said.

Resolution of Canada’s objections to the CPTPP trade deal meant the agreement could be signed soon, ExportNZ Executive Director Catherine Beard said.

"Exporters would like to acknowledge the outstanding work by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Trade Minister David Parker in helping to bring the deal through this last critical stage.  "Also the steadfast work over many years by Trade Ministers Todd McClay and Tim Groser and the former Government which laid the platform for this success.

"The bipartisan approach by both Governments to this important agreement has been a remarkable achievement.

| A BusinessNZ release  ||  January 24, 2018