AUCKLAND, July 14, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi attended a high-level engagement session with the ASEAN-New Zealand Business Council in Auckland today, marking a key moment in his official visit to New Zealand. The session underscored the deep economic and diplomatic ties forged over decades between Malaysia and New Zealand.
Highlighting the success of trade agreements like the Malaysia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), Dr. Ahmad Zahid noted their significant contributions to bilateral growth. Malaysia’s utilization of AANZFTA benefits has surged from RM5.8 billion in 2016 to RM12.9 billion in 2023, with an ambitious target to boost trade value by 50% by 2030.
The Deputy Prime Minister outlined future areas of collaboration, including sustainability and renewable energy, digital economy initiatives through MyDIGITAL, food security, the halal industry, and education. These efforts aim to enhance bilateral trade, expand market access for local products, attract high-quality foreign investment, and create new trade opportunities to navigate global economic challenges.
Dr. Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence that these initiatives will drive Malaysia and New Zealand toward a more prosperous and innovative economic partnership.