Vietnam and NZ Forge Deeper Ties in Auckland

The Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee General Secretary and President, To Lam, attended a business roundtable in Auckland on August 13, 2026, as part of his state visit to New Zealand. New Zealand Minister of Trade and Investment Todd McClay highlighted the dynamic partnership between the nations, which has grown significantly since diplomatic ties were established in 1975 and is set to be elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2025. This elevation signifies growing trust and mutual respect.

Minister McClay emphasized Vietnam's role as a key partner in Southeast Asia, citing its burgeoning economy and young workforce. He noted substantial potential for expanded cooperation beyond traditional sectors, particularly in high-tech agriculture, health technology, education, and research. The next phase of economic ties is expected to be driven by knowledge, technology, and innovation, with New Zealand aspiring to be a partner in Vietnam's economic modernization.

Business representatives from both countries shared positive experiences, noting increased complementarities and collaborative opportunities in technology, aviation, and market connectivity. General Secretary and President Lam encouraged businesses to enhance agricultural cooperation through green value chains, focusing on smart agriculture and deep processing, while also addressing market access barriers to build resilient supply chains. He urged joint efforts to foster new growth engines through science, technology, and green transformation.

President Lam positioned Vietnam as a strategic gateway for New Zealand enterprises looking to expand into ASEAN markets. Conversely, he suggested New Zealand could serve as a bridge for Vietnamese companies to deepen their integration into high-quality value chains within the Pacific region. He stressed the importance of connecting people, knowledge, and markets through stronger collaboration between universities, research institutions, and businesses in training and technology transfer.

Vietnam is committed to improving its investment environment to be stable, transparent, and competitive, aligning with international standards. This includes facilitating long-term and effective investments from New Zealand businesses, especially in high-tech agriculture, food processing, education, science, technology, innovation, and the green economy. President Lam underscored that cooperation commitments must translate into concrete results, with success measured not just by trade volume but by the quality of connectivity and tangible benefits for businesses and citizens.