Clayton Mitchell New Zealand First MP

Forestry is one of New Zealand's most valuable economic assets, yet we are missing out on the untapped potential that it could offer our economy.

As a nation, we are using an old trade model which does not have our best interest in mind. Selling off our raw logs to foreign buyers does not allow the full economic potential to be realised. It causes us to rely far too much on importing foreign processed timber that may have originated in New Zealand in the first place. Selling off our raw logs is a missed opportunity for New Zealand processors. The more our logs are processed overseas, the more potential jobs and added value are exported elsewhere.

This sends a ripple effect throughout our economy, causing inflated prices for timber and building materials. These soaring prices ultimately contribute to the skyrocketing costs of housing.

We need to reform our approach to the timber trade. New Zealand wood needs to be put first, making domestic processing a priority. This shift will add value to our economy by creating more jobs in processing plants whilst reducing the cost of natural building materials. Lowered costs for building materials will assist in bringing down the price of housing. There is incredible untapped potential in forestry for the growth of our economy.

We need to take full advantage of this incredible resource by making some key operational changes. Putting an end to raw log exports is an essential step in putting the needs of New Zealand first.