THE NEW ZEALAND government is helping its exporters forge linkages with businesses in Cebu and explore potential investments, specifically on food and beverage, wood processing, furniture, and information technology. “We continue to strengthen our ties and explore partnerships that would be beneficial for Cebu and New Zealand,” said Ambassador David Strachan during his recent Cebu visit with a delegation of New Zealand diplomats. Mr. Strachan said they see a lot of opportunities among small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which comprise majority of businesses in both the Philippines and New Zealand. Stronger links between SMEs, he said, would expand bilateral trade between the two countries. The New Zealand delegation included Trade Commissioner Hernando Banal, Tourism Regional Manager Steven Dixon, and Education Regional Immigration Operations Manager Sarah Clifford. — The Freeman