Economic transformation is one of the Government's three key priorities for the next decade, along with national identity and families, young and old.
The main aim of economic transformation is to allow New Zealanders to enjoy high overall standards of living. Raising our incomes and improving the environment in which we live - both natural and built - contribute to this, as does the progress in achieving social goals which economic growth makes possible.
Economic transformation is not a one-off process. It's about ensuring that the New Zealand economy can continuously adapt to changing circumstances. We are a small country far from major markets: we need to discover and swiftly seize new opportunities and respond decisively to perceived economic threats. Slow incrementalism won't achieve our economic goals - we need a step change, with bold, new initiatives.
Success depends on New Zealand businesses transforming themselves into globally competitive firms. The Government has a key role in underpinning this private sector effort.
To focus our contribution, the Government has organised its economic transformation programme around five interlocking themes:
- Growing globally competitive firms
- World-class infrastructure
- Innovative and productive workplaces
- Environmental sustainability
- An internationally competitive city - Auckland
The Ministry of Economic Development has a central role in progressing this ambitious programme, and in advancing a range of other issues which contribute to economic transformation.
This Statement of Intent for 2007-2010 outlines the Ministry's strategy to play its part in improving New Zealand's sustainable economic development. The strategy has evolved from the previous year, with some changes to the key areas of focus. The Ministry will continue to provide leadership across the public sector on economic development issues, and will work with local government, business and communities to advance its strategic priorities.
We endorse the strategy in this Statement of Intent as reflecting and supporting the Government's overall strategy for economic transformation. We confirm that the information it contains is consistent with the Government's policies and performance expectations.
The Ministry works across a number of portfolios to deliver economic development outcomes. This reflects the complexity and centrality of economic development issues to government policy-making. Given this broad scope, it is crucial to focus on the things that will make the most difference. The strategic priorities provide that focus.
Hon Trevor Mallard
Minister for Economic Development
Minister for Industry and Regional Development
Responsible Minister
Hon Lianne Dalziel
Minister of Commerce
Minister for Small Business
Hon Damien O'Connor
Minister of Tourism
Hon David Cunliffe
Minister of Communications
Minister for Information Technology
Hon David Parker
Minister of Energy
Hon Judith Tizard
Minister of Consumer Affairs