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Trade and Economic Update
APEC Regional Trends Analysis, August 2026
The APEC region remains resilient amid a more challenging global environment, with growth supported by strong trade, technology investment and digitalization. However, headwinds from higher energy and freight costs, weather-related disruptions, geopolitical tensions and trade policy uncertainty are clouding growth prospects. APEC economies need to strengthen supply chain resilience, accelerate digital transformation, enhance food security and mobilize investment to support more diversified, connected and sustainable growth.
For more insights, read the article: APEC Grows Amid a Complex Global Landscape as Economic Engines Shift(external link)
United States announces prohibitions on certain Canadian alcohol, whey, and motorcycles
On 8 September 2026, President Trump signed five proclamations(external link) under section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, in response to Canada matching the United States’ additional tariffs on US$20 billion of Canadian goods. These proclamations introduce new import bans on certain Canadian goods, primarily alcohol, dairy products, and motorcycles, which will take effect from 29 September 2026. Additionally, the proclamations refine the scope of the United States’ previously announced(external link) 50% tariffs under section 338 on US$20 billion of imports from Canada, by introducing further 50% tariffs on certain products while also removing other tariffs to “better serve the public interest”.
Upcoming Events and Webinars
Export 101 Workshop Series | Wellington
Wednesday 16 September 2026, 10 am – 4 pm
This full-day workshop is designed for businesses looking to enter or expand into Germany and the wider European market. Participants will gain practical insights into export strategy, regulations, logistics, trade fairs, and German business culture, with guidance from experienced exporters and industry experts. An MFAT speaker will also share perspectives on how they can leverage the opportunities within the New Zealand-European Union Free Trade Agreement (EU FTA) and the support available to businesses exploring international markets. The workshop is ideal for companies at the early stages of their export journey and offers excellent networking opportunities.
Market reports released this week
- Read the previous global economic round-up(external link)
- UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism(external link)
A full list of global economic round-ups can be found here(external link)
If you would like to request a topic for reporting please email exports@mfat.govt.nz
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Feedback
We welcome feedback from New Zealand exporters on this report and invite requests for reporting from New Zealand’s network of Embassies and High Commissions(external link). If you have suggestions on a topic you would like to hear more about, or to subscribe to this weekly update, you can sign up here(external link) or email us at exports@mfat.govt.nz
External links
The following links may provide useful information to businesses:
NZTE’s website(external link) and their myNZTE(external link) provides a range of insights and tools available to support New Zealand exporters.
The Treasury releases a weekly economic update(external link) every Friday. Stats NZ has published a data portal(external link) with near real-time economic indicators.
MBIE publishes a sector reports series(external link) which provides regularly updated reports on all industry sectors that make up the New Zealand economy. These include official economic data and the challenges and opportunities that face New Zealand’s industry sectors.
Business.govt.nz(external link) provides tools and advice from across government to save small businesses’ time and help make the business a success.
MFAT has created a tariff finder(external link) which is designed to help goods exporters and importers maximise benefits from New Zealand’s Free Trade Agreements and compare tariffs in 136 other markets.
The all of government Trade Barriers(external link) website can be used to register any trade barriers experienced or issues exporting to an offshore market. Queries can be sent via the website or through the MFAT Exporter Helpline 0800 824 605. Enquiries will be sent to the government agency best placed to answer.
Tatauranga Aotearoa Stats NZ provides official data on the value of New Zealand’s exports and imports of both goods and services, by commodity type via the New Zealand Trade Dashboard(external link). This interactive dashboard is updated every quarter and allows for filtering by country and by commodity type.
Learn more about exporting
New Zealand Trade & Enterprise’s comprehensive market guides(external link) cover export regulations, business culture, market-entry strategies and more.
Disclaimer
This information released in this report aligns with the provisions of the Official Information Act 1982. The opinions and analysis expressed in this report are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views or official policy position of the New Zealand Government. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the New Zealand Government take no responsibility for the accuracy of this report.
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