THE RISING COST OF DOING BUSINESS

摘要

The past 12 months have been exceptionally challenging for New Zealand exporters, and the DHL ExportNZ Barometer survey is one tool we use to take stock of the core issues facing exporters. The 2021 survey results painted a clear picture of the leading barriers to exporting: 1. The cost and availability of transport and logistics. 2. The inability to travel due to Covid-19 restrictions. 3. The high cost of doing business in New Zealand. So, one year on, what's changed? We recently completed our 2022 survey and by far the largest barrier to trade today is the rising cost of doing business. Exporters have to contend with runaway shipping and logistics fees, the high cost of labour and the lower value of the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Combined, these amount to a significant squeeze on an exporter's margins - more so if they're unable to pass on those cost increases.