Not enough is being done to develop links between businesses in New Zealand and Asia, the latest survey from Asia New Zealand Foundation says.

Kirk Hope, BusinessNZ chief executive, said there is a good base for growing business between New Zealand and many Asian countries but continued work is needed to deepen these relationships.

“Nearly half of New Zealanders consider that not enough is being done to develop links between businesses in New Zealand and Asia,” Hope said.

“Continued work to broaden and deepen business relationships between New Zealand and Asian countries and ongoing development of trade agreements in the region are needed to ensure that New Zealand-Asian business prospers for the benefit of all.”

Hope said the Asia New Zealand Foundation survey has helped them in recognising and bridging this gap.

“The survey shows that around three quarters of New Zealanders consider Asia is important to New Zealand’s future,” Hope said.

The latest survey showed nearly half of all New Zealanders have travelled to or lived in Asia and almost one in five speaks an Asian language.