Delegates from Japan and New Zealand will renew their strong relationships and forge new partnerships to improve the trade between the two nations 23 to 25 November at Te Papa.
Cr Simon Marsh, Economic Development Portfolio Leader, attended last year’s 42nd JNZBC Annual Joint Conference, held in Tomakomai, Japan and issued an invitation to delegates to organise this year’s conference in Wellington.
“Wellington’s international connections are strong at both government and business levels and we have remarkable growth potential,” says Cr Marsh. “There are many creative, cultural and economic opportunities and we look forward to showcasing Wellington’s advantages to our key trading partners in Japan.
“We’ll be showcasing our strengths in the film industry, the tech sector particularly our partnership with NEC Corporation, and – of course – rugby.
“With Japan hosting the next Rugby World Cup they’re keen to hear our expertise in successfully activating the city during the 2011 World Cup. Wellington put on a marvellous show for the Rugby World Cup and I’m looking forward to us sharing that knowledge.”
The conference happens alongside the 2016 Japan Festival, which celebrates the relationship between New Zealand and Japan by bringing Japanese culture and businesses to the capital for an array of spectacular events, beginning 18 November through to 4 December.
Established in May 1974, JNZBC boasts a distinguished membership of both Government and private sector representatives including Oji Holdings, Air NZ, Toshiba, Fonterra Japan, Mitsubishi Corporation, ANZ, BNZ and the Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ, among others.
Mr Kanji Maeda, Chairman of Sakai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is attending with the business delegation. Sakai is Wellington’s Sister City in Japan.