In the Business Channel
anybody have the answer?
Welcome to our November 2011 issue of The Business Channel. Our final issue of the magazine for what has been a pretty challenging year for business.
In this editorial I thought I might pose a question that somebody out there might be able to provide me with an answer for. Something that has been bothering me for quite a while. The question is quite simple, and direct, and might not be expected from one involved in private enterprise. It is... At a time when business is so tough for most retailers and those selling goods in New Zealand, why do we continue to let people buy goods from offshore websites without imposing a duty that protects businesses and jobs of New Zealanders? I know this is a bit of a hot potato, but if we let the status quo remain then our New Zealand retail sector, the businesses and the jobs of thousands will slowly continue to dwindle. If we don’t do something our main streets and shopping malls in a decade will just be food outlets, beauty and hair salons. While the answer I am alluding to will be viewed as protectionism, I do believe it is just common sense. The bottom line is that people buying locally creates local jobs and local wealth. Buying from an offshore website does zilch for the local economy or our people. A simple minimum duty would surely mean that people would not buy the smaller items, sold traditionally by main street retailers, offshore. Maybe I’m missing something?
On a positive note how fantastic was the Rugby World Cup for the country? All of those involved in organising the event should give themselves a big pat on the back. It was superb – topped off by a great final result!.
Enjoy reading your November issue of The Business Channel which is full of businesses north of the Harbour Bridge doing great things. Life is pretty good now that we have the Webb Ellis Trophy locked away for the next four years!
Have a great festive season.
- Aidan and the team at Benefitz
Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Twitter: @AidanLBennett / @channelmag
