Catherine O'Connell Attends NZTE Panel with Peter Chrisp & Ambassador Duncan

Catherine attended an NZTE-hosted session in Tokyo featuring NZTE CEO Peter Chrisp and Ambassador Lucy Duncan, and Moderated by Trade Commissioner Kylie Archer, exploring how global economic shifts are reshaping opportunities for New Zealand exporters in Japan.

The discussion highlighted several themes that are becoming increasingly important for businesses looking to succeed in the Japanese market.

First, Japanese companies are placing greater emphasis on supply reliability and resilience as they navigate energy price volatility, geopolitical uncertainty, and supply chain disruption. Trustworthy long-term partners are more valuable than ever.

Second, Japan's focus on economic security and supply chain diversification is creating opportunities for New Zealand businesses, particularly in sectors such as food and beverage, agritech, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Third, the session reinforced the importance of growing New Zealand's export sector. With exports representing approximately 25% of GDP, the message was clear: sustainable prosperity requires New Zealand businesses to look beyond domestic markets and engage internationally.

Fourth, success in Japan continues to depend on a partnership mindset rather than a transactional approach. Long-term relationships, trust, and shared value remain the foundation of enduring business success.

Finally, New Zealand's low-hierarchy, high-ingenuity culture was identified as a genuine competitive advantage, enabling innovative companies to adapt quickly and succeed in sophisticated markets such as Japan.

Many thanks to NZTE and the New Zealand Embassy for the opportunity to attend this insightful discussion.