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The Prime Minister says New Zealand will provide a targeted package of assistance to Pacific Island countries to support the region's development and capitalise on trade opportunities.
"Trade remains a key driver for economic development in the Pacific and we want to see the Pacific producing and trading more successfully with New Zealand, Australia and other trading partners," John Key says.
He says PACER Plus will focus on three key areas - trade policy and negotiating capacity, trade facilitation, and trade promotion.
"It's important that we ensure all Forum island countries can take full advantage of improved trading arrangements."
Key says an Office of the Chief Trade Advisor will be established to assist Forum countries to engage in trade negotiations. It will have a $1.95 million funding package.
"We are also looking at ways to support business groups and non government organisations to become more closely involved in the development of trade policy in the region."
New Zealand's support for regional biosecurity, customs, and standards and conformance work will also be boosted.
"We are also working closely with Australia to look at ways to promote outward trade from the Pacific with the key emphasis on private sector development and improving networks," says Key.
The Prime Minister is currently at the Pacific Islands Forum in Cairns and says the initiatives demonstrate New Zealand's commitment to support sustainable economic growth in the Pacific.
