New Zealand

Commentators upbeat about trade prospects in Middle East

08:47 am on 29 August 2013

Commentators expect demand for food from the Middle East to keep growing, despite rising tension there.

About 4% of New Zealand's $46 billion in exports go to the region, with dairy and meat products making up the bulk of it.

New Zealand Trade & Enterprise Dubai trade commissioner Steve Jones said most of New Zealand's trade is with the relatively untroubled and rich states around the Persian Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Mr Jones said companies like Fonterra have an established and growing presence in Egypt, but the country's troubles are deterring smaller firms.

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