NZMEA
MANUFACTURING through media and lobbying efforts on regulation and government policies that generally encourage the growth of the traded economy , and we directly support the development of our member companies through networking , peer support and learning .
The Association provides support for members ’ staff via training programmes and events relevant to the needs of manufacturers and exporters . Training programmes cover areas such as production line management , opening new export markets , health and safety and human resource issues . Other events allow members to network and to discuss issues with each other , politicians and economic leaders . A peer support mechanism , via regular newsletters and electronic communication allow businesses to share knowledge and remain informed .
Association membership is strictly limited to manufacturers and exporters ; as a result the NZMEA can advocate a policy framework that supports the traded sector without the risk of having to compromise the standpoints of the non-traded sector members . The Association advocates policies that aim to stabilise the New Zealand dollar around fair value , balance taxes across all forms of income including capital gains , and incentivise investment in research and development , plant and equipment , patents , early stage real economy investment , and up skilling staff . A number of these policies are justified in terms of spillover benefits , as well as levelling the playing field with regard to policies other countries have in place .
Due to the small size of New Zealand ’ s domestic market , manufacturers focus on niche markets , exporting early in the businesses life to access market scale . But this also means they are exposed to external pressures such as the exchange rate and international conditions early in their life . Manufacturers and exporters will continue to focus on innovation and adding value , however to be most effective our policy settings must also create an environment that encourages more
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