As Canterbury businesses continue to show their resilience and adaptability, exploring new and emerging markets is more important than ever. The global trade landscape is shifting, and targeting high-growth regions can unlock fresh opportunities for our exporters. Here are some of the most promising emerging markets Canterbury businesses should keep an eye on.
Wanting to go global? Business Canterbury can help through our Global Trade Membership. Get in touch with me today.
Southeast Asia
This region offers massive potential, thanks to its fast-growing economies and increasing consumer demand.
Key Markets: Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand.
Opportunities:
- Food and Beverage: There’s a growing appetite for high-quality, safe, and sustainable food products.
- Technology: Expanding cities mean there’s a strong demand for AgriTech and IT solutions.
- Education: New Zealand’s reputation in education makes this a great market for international student recruitment.
India
India’s population growth and increasing trade liberalisation make it a market full of opportunities for Canterbury exporters.
Opportunities:- Agritech and Horticulture: Sustainable farming tech is in high demand.
- Healthcare Products: The growing middle class wants quality health and wellness products.
- Consumer Goods: Rising disposable incomes mean more demand for premium products.
The UAE is a strategic hub for accessing the Middle East and North Africa.
Opportunities:- Food and Beverage: There’s significant demand for premium dairy, meat, and specialty foods.
- Construction Materials: Urban development projects create big opportunities for Canterbury manufacturers.
- Luxury Goods: High-quality, boutique products resonate well with UAE’s affluent consumers.
Africa
Africa is becoming a region of opportunity, with a young and fast-growing population.
Key Markets: South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria.
Opportunities:- Education and Training: There’s a big need for skills development and training services.
- Energy Solutions: Renewable energy and sustainability solutions are in high demand.
- Agriculture: Exporting agricultural machinery and expertise can help meet Africa’s needs.
South America
South America offers exciting prospects with its focus on sustainability and economic growth and trade agreements like the CPTPP open doors to these markets.
Key Markets: Brazil, Chile, Peru.
Opportunities:- Agritech: Innovative farming practices and equipment are needed.
- Food Exports: There’s a growing demand for high-quality meat, dairy, and wine.
- Environmental Technologies: Water management and renewable energy solutions are in demand.
While Tier 1 cities have been popular export destinations, Tier 2 and 3 cities offer untapped potential. You can now visit China visa-free for 15 days.
- Opportunities:
- Premium Goods: Demand for quality food, beverages, and health products is growing in these regions.
- Tourism: Canterbury’s unique attractions can appeal to outbound tourists.
- Technology: Software, AgriTech, and clean energy solutions align with China’s development priorities.
Latin America (Mexico)
As part of the CPTPP, Mexico offers strategic access to North America.
Opportunities:- Processed Foods: There’s increasing interest in convenience and premium food products.
- Technology: Software and automation solutions are in demand.
- Infrastructure: Exporting construction materials and tech aligns with Mexico’s development goals.
Pacific Islands
Close to home, the Pacific Islands offer plenty of opportunities for Canterbury exporters.
Opportunities:- Infrastructure Development: Construction materials and expertise are needed for aid-funded projects.
- Food and Beverage: There’s strong demand for quality packaged foods.
- Renewable Energy: Solar and wind energy solutions are helping tackle energy challenges.
Positioning Canterbury for Global Success
By leveraging trade agreements like CPTPP and RCEP, Canterbury exporters can make the most of these markets. At Business Canterbury, we’re here to help you navigate the opportunities with tailored advice, training, and connections as well as help you with certificates of origin. Whether you’re exploring new markets or scaling operations in existing ones, we’re here to support you.
Daniel Thomson
Business Advisor, Business CanterburyWith nearly a decade of experience as a business owner, my products have been retailed in major stores across Australasia and the US, including Amazon, Woolworths, Torpedo7, Briscoes, and Decathlon. As a Business and International Trade Advisor at Business Canterbury, I specialize in helping local importers and exporters succeed in global trade.
Feel free to reach out for support.