An analysis of the factors influencing New Zealand's trade with China, 1954 to 1984 : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Economics at Massey University

Abstract

Analysis of the Factors Influencing New Zealand's Trade with China- 1954 to 1984" In 2004 China became New Zealand's fourth largest trading partner taking approximately 5% of New Zealand's exports and 8% of New Zealand's imports. This study analyses the economic and political background to the rise of China as a pivotal trading partner for New Zealand. The nature and pattern of New Zealand-China trade between 1954 and 1984 is examined with emphasis given to factors that have assisted or hindered bi-lateral trade. Political factors are identified as the paramount influence on trade development and lead to the demarcation of three distinct periods of trading activity. Market forces, trade barriers, and transport issues are the other factors found to have influenced the pattern of trade between New Zealand and China over the subject period.