(VOVWORLD) - New Zealand’s news website RNZ published an article on March 12 titled "Why we want to be mates with Vietnam," shedding light on Vietnam’s impressive economic growth and its expanding trade ties, including with New Zealand.
 New Zealand media highlights Vietnam’s economic growth |
Author Alexia Russell described Vietnam as one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, with international tourist arrivals surging by 43% in 2024. From September, travel between the two countries will become more convenient as budget airline Vietjet launches direct flights between Auckland and Ho Chi Minh City.
Beyond tourism and education exchanges, the article also spotlighted New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's recent visit to Vietnam, during which he signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement aimed at creating new business opportunities in Vietnam’s thriving market.
This milestone builds on growing bilateral ties, with two-way trade between the two countries increasing by 123% since 2017, making Vietnam New Zealand’s 14th largest trading partner.
The article quoted Mark Piper, Chief Executive of Plant and Food Research, who joined the New Zealand Prime Minister’s trade delegation. He highlighted Vietnam’s untapped potential and the organisation’s five-year Viet Fruit programme, which focuses on passionfruit cultivation.
According to Piper, the programme aims to enhance production and post-harvest processes by boosting productivity, improving insect control, increasing resilience, and providing training to ensure long-term sustainability.
Meanwhile, RNZ political reporter Giles Dexter, who accompanied the Prime Minister on the trip, noted that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership opens up new opportunities for practical cooperation, particularly as New Zealand businesses show increasing interest in Vietnam’s market.