New Zealand has joined the likes of other Southern Hemisphere agricultural nations like Australia, Chile and Peru by forming a strategic alliance with the world's leading online retailer, Alibaba. 

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the group and government business development agency New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) was signed yesterday to formalize discussions for strengthening trade between the two countries and to support New Zealand brands in China.

Under the MOU, the parties will explore different collaboration opportunities, including Alibaba providing support for New Zealand companies to enter the Chinese consumer market through its various e-commerce channels, while NZTE will assist local companies to understand and optimize the opportunities Alibaba’s system offers in terms of business growth in China.

“We are excited to extend our cooperation with the New Zealand Government by collaborating with NZTE to support local businesses to enter China through Alibaba’s platforms,” said Maggie Zhou, Alibaba's newly appointed managing director for Australia and New Zealand.

"With our strong networks in China and expertise in e-commerce, we will enable Chinese consumers to benefit from the premium products and fresh foods that New Zealand businesses can offer.

NZTE chief executive Peter Chrisp said the new arrangement offered significant opportunities for New Zealand businesses to reach more consumers as well as advocating the country's reputation as a place of "open spaces, open hearts and open minds".

"New Zealand businesses are already using Alibaba’s channels to sell a wide range of products including dairy, meat, seafood, fruit, wine, beverage, cereal, skincare and health supplements," he said.

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