AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for October 21, 2026 – Full Text
1. Kāinga Ora turnaround plan continues to deliver
October 20, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Kāinga Ora has smashed its savings target, significantly reduced the cost of building social homes, and improved its performance as a landlord, Housing Minister Chris Bishop and Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka say.
“The latest results in Kainga Ora’s annual report for 2025/26 show the Government’s turnaround of the agency is delivering better value for taxpayers and better outcomes for tenants,” Mr Bishop says.
“When we came into Government, Kāinga Ora was financially unsustainable. Debt had ballooned from $2.3 billion in 2017/18 to $16.5 billion in 2023/24, build costs were out of control, and the organisation had lost focus on its core responsibilities.
“We commissioned an independent review, refreshed the Board, and implemented a Turnaround Plan in February 2025 to get Kāinga Ora back on track.
“Less than two years on, the results speak for themselves, with the latest report showing:
Efficiency: In 2025/26, Kāinga Ora delivered $191 million in operating cost reductions, smashing its $27 million savings target. Its net deficit before tax was $140 million, a $582 million improvement compared to the pre-tax deficit in 2023/24. These savings have been achieved through more efficient maintenance programmes without compromising quality, stopping unviable building projects and reshaping its workforce.
Less debt: Before the turnaround Plan, Kāinga Ora’s debt was forecast to peak at $29 billion. The peak debt is now forecasted to be $9.5 billion lower, falling to $19.5 billion.
Lower build costs: Standardised housing designs and improved procurement practices are delivering significant savings. Average build costs finished 2025/26 at $2,713 per square metre, down from $3,290 in the first quarter, and beating the $2,980 target.
Renewing older homes: Kāinga Ora is shifting its focus towards renewing existing housing stock, including selling unsuitable, expensive-to-maintain properties and reinvesting the proceeds into better social housing. Around 6,000 older homes are expected to be renovated or replaced by 2029.
Housing target met: Kāinga Ora delivered 2,136 new and upgraded homes, meeting its 2025/26 target of 2,075–2,575 homes. This includes replacing older homes nearing the end of their useful life with modern, healthy homes, while making better use of existing land to deliver more homes on the same sites.
Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says Kāinga Ora is also making significant progress in its core responsibility of being a good landlord.
“Social housing tenants deserve healthy, dry homes, responsive services and safe communities. That’s what we’ve asked Kāinga Ora to deliver, and we’re seeing real progress,” Mr Potaka says.
Better landlord performance: Kāinga Ora achieved an occupancy rate of 99.2 per cent, exceeding its 98 per cent target and up from 97.8 per cent in 2023/24. The number of vacant homes has fallen from around 2,165 in June 2024 to around 837 in June 2026, representing a 61 percent decrease, while the average time taken to re-let homes has dropped to 20.4 days, a 32 per cent improvement on the previous year.
Improved tenancy management: Around 80 per cent of tenants are satisfied with their homes and 85 per cent with Kāinga Ora services, an improvement on 73 percent and 80 percent respectively in 2023/24. Tenants in rent arrears has fallen by almost 2,000 over the past year.
Cracking down on antisocial behaviour: Kāinga Ora ended 73 tenancies for disruptive behaviour in 2025/26, following 74 in 2024/25, compared with two in 2022/23. Complaints are also being resolved much faster, with average resolution times falling to 11 days, down from 12 days the previous year and 72 days at the end of 2023.
“These results show Kāinga Ora is becoming a more responsive, responsible landlord. More homes are occupied, properties are being turned around faster, fewer tenants are falling behind on their rent, and disruptive behaviour is being taken seriously,” Mr Potaka says.
“Kāinga Ora is getting back to doing what New Zealanders expect of it: providing quality homes in the right places for people who need them,” Mr Bishop says.
Notes to editor:
The build-cost measure refers to above-ground construction costs for stand-alone social homes, excluding GST.
Attached PDF: Kāinga Ora Annual Report 2025/26.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/20/kainga-ora-turnaround-plan-continues-to-deliver/
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2. Palestine Forum of New Zealand Calls on Government to Act as 500,000 Palestinians in Gaza Face Cuts to Food Aid
October 20, 2026
Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand
The New Zealand Government must turn its concern for Palestinians into urgent, practical action.
Palestine Forum of New Zealand is calling on the New Zealand Government to take immediate diplomatic and financial action following the United Nations World Food Programme’s announcement that 500,000 Palestinians in Gaza will lose their monthly food assistance because of a severe funding shortfall.
This is not an abstract budget issue. It is a decision that will affect the daily survival of hundreds of thousands of people who have endured years of war, displacement, destruction and deprivation.
The World Food Programme has warned that its assistance is being reduced just as winter approaches. Food rations are being halved, cash assistance is being cut, and the provision of hot meals is being reduced. Meanwhile, approximately 1.4 million people in Gaza continue to face crisis-level food insecurity or worse.
No family should be left wondering where their next meal will come from because the international community has failed to fund humanitarian assistance.
PFNZ calls on the New Zealand Government to:
- Provide urgent additional humanitarian funding for the World Food Programme and trusted humanitarian organisations delivering food, clean water, medical care and essential supplies to Palestinians in Gaza.
- Mobilise international support by working with like-minded governments to close the WFP’s funding gap and ensure that humanitarian assistance is sustained rather than progressively reduced.
- Use New Zealand’s diplomatic influence to press Israel to ensure the safe, rapid and sustained entry and distribution of sufficient humanitarian aid throughout Gaza, without arbitrary restrictions or obstruction.
- Demand full implementation of the ceasefire and protection of civilians, alongside compliance with international humanitarian law and the removal of barriers preventing Palestinians from accessing essential supplies.
- Adopt a sustained humanitarian response, with transparent commitments and regular public reporting on New Zealand’s contributions and diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territory.
New Zealand cannot resolve this crisis alone, but it can make a meaningful contribution. It can provide funding, mobilise other countries and use its diplomatic relationships to press for action.
The international community must not allow a fragile improvement in food security to be reversed because humanitarian funding has fallen short. Humanitarian assistance must be based on need, not donor fatigue or shifting political attention.
Palestinians in Gaza are not statistics. They are human beings, families, children and older people who deserve food, safety and dignity.
The Palestine Forum of New Zealand urges the Government to act now. Statements of concern are not enough. Humanitarian needs demand concrete action.
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3. Senior NZ Army officer to lead longstanding mission in Sinai
October 20, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government has approved the deployment of New Zealand Army officer Brigadier Grant Motley to the role of Force Commander of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt, Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“As MFO Force Commander, Brigadier Grant Motley, upon promotion to Major General, will lead nearly 2000 military and civilian personnel from 33 countries. The mission’s role is to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the 1979 Treaty of Peace between Israel and Egypt,” Mr Goldsmith says.
“This is an important appointment for New Zealand, which has contributed to the mission since its inception in 1982. It demonstrates our commitment to global peace and stability.”
Brigadier Motley will be the fourth New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) officer to have been appointed by the MFO to this position.
He brings more than 37 years of military service to the appointment, including command at squadron, battalion and formation level, and extensive experience in multinational operations including Bosnia-Herzegovina, Timor-Leste, Afghanistan and Iraq. He has also served in Southeast Asia as a defence diplomat; in defence intelligence; military education and strategic leadership roles – including his current post as Chief of Staff of Headquarters NZDF.
Brigadier Motley will be accompanied by three additional NZDF personnel fulfilling the functions of Military Assistant, Aide de Camp, and Personnel Protection Officer. The New Zealand Defence Force is currently mandated to deploy up to 28 personnel to the MFO.
He will take up the appointment from 30 November 2026, replacing the current Force Commander, Major General Michael Garraway, of Australia.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/20/senior-nz-army-officer-to-lead-longstanding-mission-in-sinai/
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4. India FTA now open for business
October 20, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
New Zealand exporters can start using the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement from today, with tariffs removed on more than half of New Zealand’s exports to India, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.
“We launched talks in March 2025 and, by working harder and faster, concluded them in just nine months. That’s a record for India on a comprehensive trade agreement, and it’s one of the highest quality deals they’ve signed. Today, just 19 months after we started, it’s in force and working for exporters,” Mr McClay says.
From today, almost 57 per cent of New Zealand exports to India are tariff-free. That rises to 82 per cent over time. In total, 95 per cent of current exports will have tariffs removed or cut.
Key outcomes from today include:
tariffs removed on sheep meat, wool and coal
tariffs removed on more than 95 per cent of forestry and wood exports
preferential quota access for apples, kiwifruit and milk albumins
A second round of tariff cuts follows on 1 January 2027.
“Our winemakers have been shut out of India by tariffs of 150 per cent. Those will now come down to 25 or 50 per cent over 10 years and we will also now get the better access negotiated by the EU,” Mr McClay says.
“India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is forecast to reaIndia FTA now open for business
New Zealand exporters can start using the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement from today, with tariffs removed on more than half of New Zealand’s exports to India, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.
“We launched talks in March 2025 and, by working harder and faster, concluded them in just nine months. That’s a record for India on a comprehensive trade agreement, and it’s one of the highest quality deals they’ve signed. Today, just 19 months after we started, it’s in force and working for exporters,” Mr McClay says.
From today, almost 57 per cent of New Zealand exports to India are tariff-free. That rises to 82 per cent over time. In total, 95 per cent of current exports will have tariffs removed or cut.
Key outcomes from today include:
tariffs removed on sheep meat, wool and coal
tariffs removed on more than 95 per cent of forestry and wood exports
preferential quota access for apples, kiwifruit and milk albumins
A second round of tariff cuts follows on 1 January 2027.
“Our winemakers have been shut out of India by tariffs of 150 per cent. Those will now come down to 25 or 50 per cent over 10 years and we will also now get the better access negotiated by the EU,” Mr McClay says.
“India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is forecast to reach NZ$12 trillion by 2030. Getting in early, on good terms, matters,” Mr McClay says.
“The gains go well beyond exports. They reach suppliers, local businesses and the towns that depend on them.
“With the world economy so uncertain, the India Free Trade Agreement helps our exporters diversify and grow. It’s a big step towards doubling the value of our exports in 10 years.”
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise is running a programme to help exporters use the agreement, with advice, market insights and connections in India.
“I’d encourage any business with an eye on India to talk to NZTE and get started,” Mr McClay says.ch NZ$12 trillion by 2030. Getting in early, on good terms, matters,” Mr McClay says.
“The gains go well beyond exports. They reach suppliers, local businesses and the towns that depend on them.
“With the world economy so uncertain, the India Free Trade Agreement helps our exporters diversify and grow. It’s a big step towards doubling the value of our exports in 10 years.”
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise is running a programme to help exporters use the agreement, with advice, market insights and connections in India.
“I’d encourage any business with an eye on India to talk to NZTE and get started,” Mr McClay says.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/20/india-fta-now-open-for-business/
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5. Chief Freshwater Commissioner and commissioners appointed
October 20, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
A Chief Freshwater Commissioner and five freshwater commissioners have been appointed to complete planning work under the Resource Management Act 1991 during the transition to the new planning system.
“The appointments ensure the Freshwater Planning Process remains supported with appropriately qualified decision-makers during the transition,” Environment Minister Nicola Grigg says.
Retired Environment Court Judge Brian Dwyer has been appointed as Chief Freshwater Commissioner. The Chief is responsible for convening freshwater hearings panels and appointments to those panels when required under the Resource Management Act.
The following freshwater commissioners have also been appointed:
Dhilum Nightingale
Lynda Murchison
Dr Greg Ryder
Dr Ian Boothroyd
Kitt Littlejohn
The appointments are for one year from October 1, with the exception of current commissioner Dhilum Nightengale, who is reappointed from 1 January 2027.
“The appointees bring independent expertise in freshwater management, resource management planning, governance, judicial process, farming systems, tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori and environmental decision-making,” Ms Grigg says.
The appointments will support Environment Canterbury’s proposed freshwater planning instruments currently progressing through the Freshwater Planning Process. The Chief Freshwater Commissioner will be responsible for establishing a freshwater hearings panel as the proposed instruments advance through the statutory process.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/20/chief-freshwater-commissioner-and-commissioners-appointed/
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6. New Zealand and Brazil agree Trade and Investment Dialogue
October 20, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
New Zealand and Brazil have agreed to set up a Trade and Investment Dialogue to grow trade and investment between the two countries, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.
“By setting up this Dialogue, we’re committing to work more closely together on trade and economic issues, as well as specific areas like WTO reform,” Mr McClay says.
“That’s good news for exporters. When global trade is this unpredictable, it pays to have strong, steady relationships.
“Over the past 60 years, New Zealand and Brazil have built a solid partnership, backed by close people-to-people, education and cultural ties, and a shared commitment to open, rules-based trade.”
The Dialogue will also be used to discuss ways to deepen the broader trade relationship, including through trade negotiations. It follows a meeting of senior New Zealand and Brazilian officials in Brasília in September.
Two-way trade between New Zealand and Brazil totalled NZ$528 million in the year ending March 2026. New Zealand exports to Brazil were NZ$205 million, with key exports including travel services, pharmaceuticals, fruits and nuts, mechanical machinery, and electrical machinery and equipment. Brazilian exports to New Zealand were worth NZ$323 million, including coffee, tea and spices, wood pulp, pharmaceuticals and animal feed.
Dates for the first meeting will be set following the second round of Brazil’s elections (25 October) and New Zealand’s election (7 November).
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/20/new-zealand-and-brazil-agree-trade-and-investment-dialogue/
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7. Canada, NZ agree to boost trade and investment
October 20, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
New Zealand and Canada will set up an annual Trade and Investment Dialogue to grow trade and lift exports, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.
“Canada represents a market of nearly 42 million people with a GDP of close to NZ$4.5 trillion. Our trade and investment with Canada is growing but we can do much more,” Mr McClay says. “We already collaborate with Canada as members of the CPTPP and the WTO.
“This Dialogue is about boosting trade between us. It’s also a regular place to sit down with Canada and work through challenging international and domestic trade issues.”
Canada is a G7 economy and New Zealand’s tenth largest export market. Two-way trade between New Zealand and Canada totalled NZ$3.46 billion in the year ending June 2026. New Zealand exports to Canada were NZ$2.18 billion, with key exports including meat, travel services, beverages, fruit and dairy. Canadian exports to New Zealand were worth NZ$1.28 billion, including machinery, fertilisers, travel services, other business services and mineral substances.
The Dialogue will take place annually at senior officials’ level and lead to an annual meeting of trade ministers.
“Kiwi exporters are already doing well in Canada. This is about helping them do more, as we work towards doubling the value of our exports by 2034,” Mr McClay says.
More information is available at www.mfat.govt.nz.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/20/canada-nz-agree-to-boost-trade-and-investment/
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8. Election 2026 – BusinessNZ: They said it couldn’t be done – India trade deal opens doors for NZ
October 20, 2026
Source: BusinessNZ
New Zealand exporters gain better access to India from today, with BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich saying the new free trade agreement gives businesses more room to grow at a time of uncertainty in international trade.
Tariffs on sheep meat and wool are removed from today, October 20, and more than 95 per cent of existing forestry exports becomes duty-free. Further scheduled tariff reductions follow on January 1, 2027.
Ms Rich said implementation marks an important milestone after years of advocacy for closer economic ties with India.
Many had said a deal with India was impossible.
“It’s a great day for New Zealand exporters, with the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement coming into force today. It creates new opportunities for trade, investment and stronger economic ties between our nations.
“At a time when international trade is becoming less predictable, New Zealand needs more options, not fewer. A stronger relationship with India helps spread risk and gives our businesses another avenue for growth.”
Ms Rich said the deal was of strategic importance to New Zealand.
“India is one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies. The agreement delivers improved access for New Zealand exporters, substantial tariff reductions across many of our exports, stronger footing for services, and clearer, faster trade processes into a market of 1.4 billion people.”
ExportNZ Executive Director Joshua Tan said those exporters that already had trade relationships in India would have been preparing for the deal coming into force – checking rules of origin and ensuring documentation processes were ready.
The ExportNZ DHL barometer survey showed a jump in exporters interested in doing business in India – but those who were not already in the market now needed to assess whether there were good commercial opportunities, and whether they were ready to make the necessary investment in time and resources in order to make a go of it and succeed.
“Building commercial relationships and establishing a presence in the market will still take time and resources from our export companies.”
Ms Rich said government agencies and business organisations had a continuing role in helping companies understand the requirements and resolve problems as they arise.
While the dairy outcome falls short of what New Zealand sought, Ms Rich said further progress should remain a priority alongside making use of the access already secured.
“We would have liked a more ambitious dairy outcome. That remains an area where we want further progress.
“But that does not diminish the value of the access secured for other sectors. The test is whether this agreement creates worthwhile opportunities and leaves New Zealand better placed than it would be without it. We believe it does.”
Today’s milestone was the beginning of the next stage of work.
“Getting the agreement into force is an important achievement. The next task is to turn that opportunity into lasting business.”
New Zealand-India FTA takes effect on 20 October: what changes for exporters
The New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement takes effect on October 20, 2026, cutting tariffs and opening opportunities. For existing exporters, some benefits begin immediately.
India is New Zealand’s ninth-largest goods-and-services export market, taking NZ$2.22 billion in the year ended June 2026. Two-way trade was about NZ$4 billion.
ExportNZ Executive Director Joshua Tan said businesses must assess whether India fits their strategy and whether they can commit the resources needed.
“The FTA helps address some of the barriers, but building commercial relationships and establishing a presence in the market will still take time and resources from our export companies.”
What the headline numbers mean
Based on 2024 goods trade values, including existing duty-free access:
- 57.3 per cent qualifies for duty-free access from entry into force, including access under quota.
- 82.2 per cent qualifies once scheduled tariff elimination is complete.
- Another 13.2 per cent receives reductions rather than elimination.
- 4.6 per cent remains excluded.
Together, 95.4 per cent receives elimination or reductions. These figures exclude services and do not describe all possible products. Core dairy products and beef remain excluded.
Estimated annual tariff savings are NZ$43 million initially, rising to NZ$62 million when fully implemented, based on 2024 trade.
The official assessment projects annual GDP NZ$401 million higher by 2037, in 2024 dollars, than without the agreement: about 0.07 per cent. By 2050, the modelled gain reaches approximately NZ$658 million, or 0.1 per cent.
Removing New Zealand’s remaining tariffs on qualifying Indian goods could lower costs for importers, businesses and consumers, although some domestic producers face greater competition.
Immediate gains
More than 95 per cent of existing forestry exports to India becomes duty-free immediately. Tariffs on almost all existing forestry trade are removed over seven implementation years.
India’s 33 per cent sheep meat tariff disappears immediately, alongside the tariff on wool. Better access improves competitiveness; sales still depend on demand, distribution and relationships.
Apples qualify from 1 April to 31 August; kiwifruit from 1 April to 15 October. The first practical quota opportunity is therefore 2027:
- Apples: 35,000 tonnes, rising to 45,000 from year six. The in-quota tariff falls from 50 to 25 per cent, subject to a minimum CIF (cost, insurance and freight) value of US$1.25/kg.
- Kiwifruit: 8,000 tonnes, rising to 15,000 from year six. In-quota access is duty-free, subject to a minimum CIF value of US$1.80/kg.
Outside quota, kiwifruit receives a 50 per cent reduction in the prevailing most-favoured-nation tariff where its CIF value is at least US$2.50/kg.
Export certificates, Indian quota authorisations, minimum values and import windows apply. Related market access can be suspended through the agreement’s consultation process if agricultural cooperation commitments are not fulfilled.
Wine receives substantial cuts, but some protection remains. Under the negotiated schedule, wine valued at US$5 to below US$15 per 750ml bottle, CIF, falls from a 150 per cent tariff to 100 per cent initially, ultimately reaching 50 per cent. Wine valued at US$15 or more falls to 75 per cent initially, ultimately reaching 25 per cent. Below US$5, the scheduled tariff remains 150 per cent.
For wine, India must provide treatment at least as favourable as that given to other trading partners, including minimum CIF thresholds.
Dairy’s limits, services’ opportunities
Milk powders, butter, cheese and other core dairy products remain excluded from tariff liberalisation. Gains are narrower: qualifying bulk infant formula, dairy-based preparations and peptones have tariffs phased out over seven implementation years; albumins receive reduced tariffs within quota.
A dedicated mechanism is intended to facilitate duty-free supply of New Zealand ingredients, including dairy, for manufacturing in India for subsequent export.
If India grants core dairy concessions to a comparable trading partner under a qualifying future agreement, New Zealand can request consultations on similar treatment during the agreement’s general review. Unlike wine’s provision, this does not guarantee matching access.
Mr Tan said officials must continue pursuing better dairy access. The commercial case is that gains for other exporters remain worth taking while that work continues.
India has made commitments across almost 100 additional services sectors beyond its WTO commitments, including engineering, environmental services, tertiary and adult education, and audiovisual services. Qualifying future improvements offered to other FTA partners can also flow through.
These provisions do not automatically recognise New Zealand qualifications, licences or registrations. They support further work on recognition.
Immigration: capped pathways, policy trade-offs
The agreement includes temporary employment, working-holiday and student commitments. It does not allow for unrestricted entry.
The agreement’s temporary-employment pathway is capped at 5,000 visa holders at any one time, not 5,000 additional arrivals annually: 4,400 places in specified skilled occupations and 600 in specified Indian occupations. Applicants must meet employment and eligibility requirements. A separate working-holiday scheme provides up to 1,000 places annually.
The skilled occupation list is reviewed every five years, with existing arrangements continuing unless changes are mutually agreed. This limits unilateral flexibility as labour-market conditions evolve.
The student annex prevents numerical limits on qualifying students’ admission and entry, while retaining immigration and institutional eligibility requirements. New Zealand already operated without a numerical cap, but a treaty commitment constrains future choices.
Commitments include permission to work at least 20 hours weekly during study and specified post-study work periods. The annex requires implementation within one year of entry into force, not necessarily immediately.
Investment: not a taxpayer cheque
New Zealand must promote foreign direct investment into India, aiming to increase investment by New Zealand investors by US$20 billion over 15 years. It does not require a government payment or compel businesses to invest.
Reviews occur no later than years five and ten, with a final review at year 15, unless different arrangements are mutually agreed.
If the objective is missed at the final review and India considers New Zealand has not fulfilled its promotion commitment, escalating government-to-government consultations can follow. If unresolved, any grace period granted has elapsed and India determines the promotion commitment remains unfulfilled, it can take proportionate measures to rebalance tariff concessions.
Mr Tan said businesses should invest on commercial merit.
The chapter does not provide investor-state dispute settlement; India’s domestic legal and regulatory environment still requires careful assessment.
Turning access into business
The next scheduled tariff cuts arrive on 1 January 2027. The general schedule’s first implementation year ends on 31 December 2026.
Lower tariffs do not remove licensing, labelling, biosecurity, documentation or intellectual property challenges. The agreement improves customs procedures, including advance rulings and electronic processing.
Its 48-hour release commitment requires necessary information and documentation by arrival and excludes goods subject to physical examination or inspection. For perishables and express shipments, the commitment is to endeavour to release goods within 24 hours, subject to conditions. It is not a clearance guarantee.
Mr Tan said implementation must be monitored as businesses begin using the agreement. ExportNZ can assist alongside MFAT, MPI and New Zealand Customs.
Existing exporters should confirm tariff classifications and reductions, rules of origin and documentation, quota eligibility, import windows and minimum values. They should also review approvals, logistics and contracts with importers, distributors and freight providers.
For newcomers, the first task is assessing market fit, commercial opportunity, local partnerships and the resources needed. Mr Tan said there had been positive interest, including well-attended events and 100 businesses and organisations backing the BusinessNZ campaign to sign the deal.
Australia’s experience shows the potential. Its Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade reports that agricultural exports to India more than doubled, from around A$1 billion in 2022 to A$2.3 billion in 2025. The Australia-India trade agreement entered into force on 29 December 2022. Those figures show growth, not how much was caused by the agreement or what New Zealand can expect.
“It is now up to our exporters, our business community to make the most of the opportunity.”
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.
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9. DCANZ calls for rapid move to binding dispute resolution with Canada
October 20, 2026
Source: Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ)
The Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ) welcomes efforts to strengthen trade with Canada but says a process of annual talks will be too slow to resolve pressing dairy concerns. It is calling on the Government to pursue legal dispute resolution if the first round of talks fails to deliver rapid progress.
DCANZ’s call follows today’s announcement that New Zealand and Canada will set up an annual trade and investment Dialogue to grow trade and lift exports, and that the dialogue will work through trade issues. DCANZ has longstanding concerns about subsidised Canadian milk protein exports harming New Zealand dairy exports.
“A stronger relationship with Canada requires timely resolution of these serious dairy trade concerns,” says DCANZ Chief Executive Kimberly Crewther.
“If the first round of talks does not deliver rapid progress, we urge the Government to move to formal, legal dispute resolution.
“Canada’s subsidised dairy exports are already harming New Zealand exporters in global protein markets. Its government-backed milk management and pricing system subsidises milk protein for Canadian processors, allowing them to undercut unsubsidised New Zealand exporters.
“These trade-distorting practices are inconsistent with Canada’s commitments under the WTO Agreement on Agriculture.
“The commercial stakes are substantial: we estimate Canada’s subsidised dairy protein exports put hundreds of millions of dollars in New Zealand export returns at risk each year.”
DCANZ has previously asked the Government to initiate formal WTO dispute proceedings with Canada and continues to view this binding legal resolution as an essential part of the way forward.
“Bilateral talks can advance many parts of the New Zealand-Canada trade relationship. But after years without resolution on dairy, talks alone are unlikely to be successful.”
“Canada has already repeatedly rejected New Zealand’s concerns and has a history of changing trade-distorting practices only after an adverse dispute settlement finding.
“Legal dispute resolution offers a clear, rules-based path out of the stalemate-and a better prospect of resolution than another round of talks without a binding outcome.
“Canada and New Zealand both helped establish the WTO Alternative Dispute Resolution Procedures. Choosing to use an available, rules-based process is not a black mark on the relationship. Instead, it demonstrates confidence in the international trading system and maturity in the bilateral relationship.”
DCANZ says the dairy trade war between the United States and Canada further underscores the urgency of using an independent, rules-based process to address New Zealand’s concerns.
“The North American dispute risks pushing more subsidised Canadian dairy protein into other global markets-making timely legal resolution more urgent, not less.”
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10. International Organization for Mediation Hosts First Anniversary Celebration
October 21, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
Inaugural Year Marked by Significant Progress in Case Administration, Capacity Building and International Engagement
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 October 2026 – The International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) today hosted the IOMed 1st Anniversary Celebration at its headquarters in Hong Kong. The Hon John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Professor Teresa Cheng, Secretary-General of IOMed, Mr Cui Jianchun, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR, the Hon Andrew Cheung, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and more than 140 guests from Contracting States and Signatory States to the IOMed Convention, diplomatic missions, government agencies, the legal and dispute resolution community, and the business sector, celebrated the first anniversary of IOMed together, reflecting on its achievements in the inaugural year, and reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing peace, cooperation and common development through dialogue.
Celebrating an Important Milestone
Professor Teresa Cheng, the Hon John KC Lee, and Mr Cui Jianchun delivered remarks celebrating this memorable moment.
Chief Executive remarked that, “The IOMed is a vital platform for promoting global peace and prosperity. And the HKSAR Government will continue to support the IOMed, in keeping with the National 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan. Hong Kong, after all, is the world’s only Chinese‑English, bilingual common law jurisdiction. And our status as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre is internationally recognised.”
Professor Cheng stated, “IOMed will continue to provide accessible, efficient, and effective mediation services, strengthen international partnerships, and promote mediation through capacity building and the exchange of experiences.”
Commissioner Cui Jianchun said in his speech that “Over the past year, we have witnessed the International Organization for Mediation transition from vision to reality through the ‘ACE’ framework—Accession, Cases, and Ecosystem. As the host country, China remains fully committed to supporting IOMed’s long-term goals, injecting positive legal energy into peaceful dispute settlement and contributing to a shared community for humanity.”
Since its inauguration one year ago, IOMed has continued to promote the peaceful settlement of international disputes through mediation. In an increasingly complex and evolving international environment, mediation plays an important role as an amicable, effective and flexible means of dispute resolution. By promoting dialogue and mutually beneficial solutions, mediation can help bridge differences, build trust, and strengthen international cooperation.
Successful Stories in IOMed-Administered Mediation
IOMed is the world’s first intergovernmental legal organization dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation. Since commencing operations, IOMed has received multiple cases and facilitated the successful settlement of more than one case, including its first case of international maritime dispute. The case involved enterprises from China, a Contracting State of IOMed, and Singapore, a non-signatory State. With the assistance of the mediator, the parties reached an amicable settlement efficiently through mediation, demonstrating the effectiveness of mediation as a means of resolving complex cross-border commercial disputes.
The case also reflects the openness and inclusiveness of IOMed as an independent international organization. Subject to the consent of the parties concerned, disputes involving non-Contracting States and their nationals may also be submitted to IOMed for mediation. A growing number of cases have since been submitted to IOMed, reflecting increasing confidence in its mediation mechanism and professional services.
Expanding Global Cooperation Network
Growing confidence in IOMed is also reflected in the continued expansion of its international cooperation network. To date, the number of Signatory and Acceding States has increased to 48, while the number of Contracting States has reached 18, spanning Asia, Africa, Latin America, Oceania and Europe. The Global Mediation Summit, hosted by IOMed in May 2026, brought together participants from more than 60 countries and regions, demonstrating broad international recognition of and support for mediation. In addition, IOMed delegations conducted outreach visits to 15 countries, attending international conferences and engaging government officials, local business community and legal professionals. At the same time, its Headquarters welcomed more than 2,500 visitors from around the world.
Through cooperation with other international organizations and partners, IOMed has delivered a range of training programmes on inter-State mediation and investor-State mediation for its member States. It has also launched platforms for intellectual exchanges, such as Dialogue with Mediators and the IOMed Global Dialogue Series, supporting sharing of knowledge and best practices with a view to promoting the use of mediation.
Contributing to Hong Kong’s Development as the “Global Capital of Mediation”
As the first intergovernmental organization headquartered in Hong Kong, IOMed’s achievements during its inaugural year also underscore the unique strengths of Hong Kong, the host city of the Organization, as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre and a bridge connecting different legal systems and cultures.
Based on the 2026 Policy Address and Hong Kong’s first Five-Year Plan, the Hong Kong SAR will continue to render full support to the work of the IOMed headquartered in Hong Kong, building a Global Capital of Mediation. IOMed welcomes this strategic direction and is confident that IOMed and Hong Kong will continue to make significant contribution to each other’s development and success.
Fostering a Global Mediation Ecosystem
Looking ahead, IOMed will continue its efforts to foster a global mediation ecosystem. Through international exchanges and cooperation, as well as training and capacity-building initiatives, IOMed will continue to promote the use of mediation among governments, the business community, the legal profession and other stakeholders, with a view to enhancing global awareness and understanding of mediation.
IOMed is preparing to launch the IOMed Moot, a mediation moot competition, to promote the culture of mediation among the youth and cultivate next-generation professionals. In addition, IOMed will continue to organize events under IOMed Global Series and Dialogue with Mediators, providing platforms for professional exchange and collaboration, and contributing to a more effective and inclusive framework for the resolution of international disputes.
Hosting IOMed Forum in December 2026
On 8 December 2026 (Tuesday), IOMed will host the inauguraledition of its signature event IOMed Forum under the theme “Mediation for Peace and Prosperity — The New Frontier” in Hong Kong. The Forum will bring together government officials, legal experts, business leaders and international stakeholders to exchange insights on the future of international mediation. Interested participants are invited to save the date and register via the link: https://bit.ly/IOMedForum.
Please click HERE to download the high-resolution press photos.
| Photo 1: The Hon John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, delivered remarks at the Reception. |
| Photo 2: Mr. Cui Jianchun, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, delivered remarks at the Reception. |
| Photo 3: Professor Teresa Cheng, Secretary-General of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed), delivered remarks at the Reception. |
| Photo 4: Group photo of Professor Teresa Cheng, CE, Commissioner CUI, representatives of IOMed Contracting States. |
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