The inaugural Ethnic Xchange business symposium successfully unlocked the full potential of ethnic businesses for the benefit of New Zealand on 11th October in Auckland at Cordis. Discussions focused on trade, investment, and innovation, including how ethnic businesses can support New Zealand’s trading aspirations. This included their expertise in navigating offshore markets and international business environments.
Attendees heard from government Ministers, officials, High Commissioners and Ambassadors such as Her Excellency Ms.Mazita Marzuki – Malaysia, His Excellency William Tan – Singapore, Charge d’Affaires a.i., High Commission of India Mr.Mukesh Ghiya , business leaders, industry experts, innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs. It was a chance to influence and be informed by the architects of national and local business policies, gain insights into regulations and decision-making, and share challenges, ideas, and hopes with officials who can make real changes.
The symposium showcased the economic benefits that ethnic communities bring to New Zealand. It highlighted case examples in tech, clean energy, sustainability, and AI. It explored the practical steps needed to remove barriers to ethnic businesses making a bigger contribution to New Zealand’s economy.
Ethnic Xchange featured multiple networking opportunities for participants to connect with trade and investment partners, entrepreneurs, experts, and government representatives. Whether attendees were looking to expand their network, find investment opportunities, or capture insights into the latest trade and innovation trends, this event provided a platform to connect, learn, and grow.
Ministers such as Hon Nicola Willis, Hon David Seymour, Hon Melissa Lee and Hon Judith Collins delivered speeches at the event. Hon Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance emphasized that ethnic communities serve as catalysts for change and innovation in New Zealand. Hon David Seymour Minister of Regulation emphasized that the government’s role is not to dictate how businesses should be run, but to create the right environment for them to thrive. If you’re not considering the global potential of your business from the very beginning, you’re essentially wasting everyone’s time -Hon Judith Collins – Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology.