Have your say: Strengthening trans-Tasman economic relations
The Productivity Commissions of Australia and New Zealand have released a discussion draft on to set out preliminary recommendations for strengthening trans-Tasman economic relations.
Submissions close: 18 October 2012.
The scoping study has been commissioned to mark the 30th anniversary of Closer Economic Relations (CER).
The Australian and New Zealand Productivity Commissions have identified some 20 policy initiatives to promote beneficial economic integration between the two countries.
The draft study says both countries face challenges and opportunities in a dynamic global economy. The relationship should remain outward-looking, taking into account linkages with other trade agreements and not impeding opportunities for profitable exchange with other trading partners. It should also complement productivity-enhancing policies and reforms in each country.
The major initiatives likely to deliver benefits to both Australia and New Zealand are set out in the study and relate to business law, occupational licensing, ‘rules of origin’, air services and shipping, and capital and labour flows. The draft says there is also significant potential for each government to cooperate with and learn from the other in policy development and evaluation.
Helen Hull is the editor of First 5000, the leading network for mid-sized businesses in Australia.
