New Zealand is looking at deals including with the Gulf States, the European Union and eventually the United Kingdom.

It is also considering alternative options after US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal.

Mr English told a business audience in Auckland trade was vital to New Zealand's success.

"It is important that we remain an open and outward-facing country focused on creating and embracing trading opportunities."
Under the strategy, the government wants 90 percent of exports covered by free trade agreements by within the next 13 years, a big increase from the present 53 percent.

New Zealand will also open a new embassy in Dublin, Ireland and a High Commission in Sri Lanka to help tap into those markets.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will get about $60 million in new funding to grow the export market, and target non-tariff barriers.

A ministerial advisory group will be established to help better inform the public about trade deals.

There will also be a single point of contact to allow exporters to alert the Government to non-tariff barriers and to get better information and support.

Source: Radio NZ