(Photo Credit: Dave Ananth).
Venkat Raman
Auckland, February 10, 2025
Auckland Business Chamber has appointed popular legal counsel and Indian Newslink Columnist Dave Ananth as an Honorary Advisor (ASEAN Region) to advocate its international reach.
Chamber Chief Executive Simon Bridges also announced Investment and Trade Expert Yan Zhang as Advisor representing the China Region and Chamber’s International Documentation Expert Natsuki Ihara to represent Japan.
Globalising businesses
Mr Bridges said that the Advisors will add value to the services of the Chamber.
“We know how hard it is to do international business, including export or import. That is why we are proud to have been making it easier for members to do international business from New Zealand for over 160 years. In addition to our international documents and certification work which helps thousands of Kiwi exporters each year to get their quality goods all around the world without hitch, we also support the best international business councils, host international business delegations in Auckland, take them out onto the world stage, and put on more international events and forums than anyone else in New Zealand,” he said.
Mr Bridges said that the Chamber is keen to ensure that its members get good, accessible, preliminary feedback and advice on their international business journey.
“That is the reason we are growing our international advisor capacity with people with relevant experience in different markets we know matter to you. As a member you are entitled to two free sessions with one of our advisors following which they will continue helping at very reasonable rates,” he said.
About Dave Ananth
A Special Counsel at Stace Hammond Lawyers, Auckland, Mr Ananth has more than 40 years of experience in various aspects of law but is known for his expertise on Tax.
As a Prosecutor and Solicitor for the Inland Revenue Department for five years, he advises people to be tax-compliant and avoid unpleasant situations.
“I have always advised my clients that they must contact me the moment they get a call or letter from IRD. That is when it is crucial to make a move rather than postpone proper action. Waiting for further letters and calls makes the situation worse. Almost all the cases in which I have been involved could have been resolved quickly if clients had the right advice and strategy,” he said.
Dave Ananth, who writes a Column in Indian Newslink, is also a Member of the Indian Newslink Legal Panel for Communities.
As the President of the New Zealand Malaysian Business Association based in Auckland, he will bring a special relationship to the Chamber in his new role as Honorary Advisor.
Building a Community
In a recent Indian Newslink Column, Mr Ananth said that New Zealand needs to rethink its approach to economic incentives to attract investments.
“This means not only financial incentives but also creating an environment that supports innovation, growth, and sustainability. For instance, tax breaks, grants, and subsidies for businesses that invest in green technologies or sustainable practices could position New Zealand as a leader in the global green economy,” he said.
Mr Ananth said that New Zealand has many strengths that can be leveraged to boost its economic standing. The country is known for its clean, green image, and this reputation can be a significant selling point on the global stage. Promoting New Zealand’s commitment to environmental sustainability can attract businesses and tourists looking for eco-friendly destinations and partners. But we are not doing enough.
“New Zealand offers high-quality products and services. However, good quality alone is not enough to drive economic growth. We need to effectively market these strengths to the world. This involves not only highlighting the quality of our products but also emphasising the value for money, transparency, integrity, and honesty that come with doing business with New Zealand. New Zealand is upfront, we do not cheat, we are clear. You pay for quality,” Mr Ananth said.
Strengthening Advisory
Mr Bridges said that as a part of its efforts to improve quality services to members, the Chamber will arrange two free sessions with one of its advisors, following which they will continue helping at “very reasonable rates.”
“We deliver the best platform from which businesses can operate. The Auckland Business Chamber is one of New Zealand’s longest-standing membership organisations and the voice for business.
Whether we are advocating government, helping businesses navigate employment challenges, providing networking opportunities through events, building resources to educate, celebrating business success, or providing advice, and tools to support business. We help those in business, every single day,” Mr Bridges said.
Enhancing Trade
Mr Bridges said that exporting and importing from New Zealand offers tremendous opportunities for businesses to expand their horizons and tap into global markets.
“However, venturing into offshore business brings its fair share of challenges. That’s where our team of experts step in; they can guide you through the intricacies of international trade. Whether you are a new exporter or already exporting, we provide personalised guidance and support to meet your specific needs. Importing goods opens up a world of possibilities for businesses, allowing them to access a wide range of products and expand their offerings to meet consumer demands, tap into cost-effective sourcing options, access specialized products, and diversify their inventory,” he said.
A Call for Change
In another article (Indian Newslink November 1, 2024), Mr Ananth had asked Inland Revenue to consider a more ‘merciful attitude’ towards defaulting businesses, given the current financial stress and economic decline.
“Given these economic pressures, the IRD’s current approach would benefit from reorienting towards a more supportive and context-sensitive stance. Working closely with companies to understand sector-specific cash flow challenges and economic stressors would allow the IRD to support economic stability while ensuring compliance. This compassionate approach would not only align with the spirit of public service but also prove economically prudent by allowing struggling businesses to “survive till 25” and beyond.
In an era where every Kiwi business matters, IRD must prioritise empathy in its approach, an approach that first seeks to understand and assist before resorting to statutory demands. Such a shift would not only safeguard economic vitality but also promote a collaborative environment where businesses can weather the storm, recover, and ultimately contribute to New Zealand’s long-term prosperity,” he said.
