Export New Zealand wants political parties to take a bi-partisan approach to free trade agreements.
Export New Zealand wants political parties to take a bi-partisan approach to free trade. Photo: RNZ / Rachel Graham
The suggestion is included in manifestos released on Monday to support companies involved in exporting and manufacturing.
The body's executive director, Catherine Beard, said boosting the number of free trade agreements would help keep the country globally competitive.
New Zealand is trying to broker a free trade deal with South Korea and was involved in negotiations for a Trans Pacific Partnership, which would achieve free trade with twelve countries including the United States.
Ms Beard said that free trade agreeements have been hugely beneficial for New Zealand's economy.