New Climate-Focused Trade Agreement Signed at APEC in Lima, Peru

Kia ora e te whānau,

Te Taumata has exciting news from APEC Leaders Week in Lima, Peru, where Aotaroa-New Zealand has just signed our groundbreaking new trade agreement focused on climate action and sustainability. The Agreement on Climate Change, Trade, and Sustainability (ACCTS) is a significant step towards creating more commercial opportunities for our Māori exporters while also protecting Papatūānuku me te taiao and upholding our commitments to kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga.

Te Taumata’s Role

We are proud to share that Te Taumata, your Māori Trade Advisory Group, has been actively engaged throughout the development process of this agreement. We have worked closely with the government to ensure that the principles of kaitiakitanga and the values of our Māori exporters are reflected in the ACCTS. This collaborative approach has helped shape a trade agreement that aligns with our vision for a sustainable and equitable future.

What is ACCTS?

The ACCTS is an innovative and flexible trade agreement designed to grow over time and welcome new members. The more countries that join us, the more opportunities there will be for Aotearoa-New Zealand businesses to access international markets. The agreement will officially take effect around late 2025 or early 2026, and the full details will be shared soon.

What Does This Mean for Māori Exporters?

Environmental Goods:

The agreement will remove tariffs on over 300 products identified as environmentally friendly, making it easier and cheaper to trade these goods. This comprehensive list includes not only industrial products like solar panels and wind turbines but also natural, renewable goods such as wool and timber, which are significant export sectors for Māori businesses in the primary industries. This aligns with our principles of kaitiakitanga, recognising the value of sustainably sourced resources and creating opportunities for our Māori businesses exporting wood products and natural fibres. It sets a strong commercial precedent for a future where our trade reflects our respect for the environment and our kaupapa of Tūpuna Pono – being good ancestors, now!

Environmental Services:

ACCTS also opens up market access for over 100 types of environmental services. This covers a wide range of opportunities, from consulting on renewable energy projects (like solar or wind) to environmental engineering and monitoring. By reducing trade barriers, this agreement will help our Māori service providers enter new markets and share knowledge on climate adaptation and emissions reduction. This too, aligns with our kaupapa of being Tūpuna Pono, ensuring we take actions today that benefit our mokopuna and future generations.

Eco-Labelling:

The agreement includes guidelines for eco-labelling, which will help New Zealand producers showcase their environmentally friendly products. This can be particularly beneficial for Māori businesses that focus on sustainable practices, making it easier to promote and sell goods internationally without facing unfair trade barriers. These guidelines support our commitment to kaitiakitanga, protecting the integrity of our products and the values they represent.

Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform:

For the first time, ACCTS includes legally binding commitments to cut harmful fossil fuel subsidies that distort trade and damage the environment. This is a positive move towards a fairer and greener global economy, supporting Tūpuna Pono thinking and actions, as we strive to leave behind a better world for those who come after us.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. As more countries join ACCTS, the benefits will continue to grow for Aotearoa- New Zealand exporters, particularly those involved in sustainable and environmentally friendly products and services. Te Taumata will continue to play an active role, advocating for Māori interests and ensuring that our voices are heard as this agreement evolves.

Ngā mihi nui,
Hone McGregor
Te Taumata – Māori Trade Advisory Group

This new agreement reflects our shared commitment to kaitiakitanga and Tūpuna Pono. It offers a chance to enhance our trade practices in ways that honour our values, care for our Te Taiao & Papatūānuku, and create a positive legacy for ngā uri – future generations. Stay tuned for further updates and information on how this trade agreement could open new doors for Māori businesses/exporters dedicated to sustainability and guardianship of our natural resources.

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Victor Goldsmith – Trustee at Te Taumata

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Ernestynne Walsh – Trustee at Te Taumata

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Ngāti Porou, Te Whānau-a-Apanui

Ernestynne joined the trust through He Tukutuku Koiora, the future Māori directors programme led by Tapuwae Roa. Digital and data governance is her area or speciality having provided digital and data governance support for various advisory groups including ACC, MBIE, NZSIS and DIA. At Te Taumata, she supports with digital trade chapters and indigenous trade research. In 2025, she won a Te Hapori Maithiko award for corporate change.

Ethan Jones – Trustee at Te Taumata

Ethan Jones

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Teresa Tepania-Ashton – Trustee at Te Taumata

Teresa Tepania-Ashton

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Rawson Wright – Deputy Chair of Te Taumata

Rawson Wright

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Hone McGregor – Chair of Te Taumata

Hone McGregor

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Rarua/Te Ati Awa, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Te Atiawa, Te Atihaunui-a-Päpärangi, Ngāti Kahungunu/Ngāti Kere, Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Rarua, Rangitāne, Ngāti Kuia

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