New Zealand opens trade office in Colombia

The New Zealand government has opened a trade office in the Colombian capital of Bogota as it seeks to drum up business with the Latin American country.

"Colombia is an increasingly important partner for New Zealand and New Zealand businesses," Trade Minister Todd McClay said in a statement from his office after opening the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise office Friday.

"The country has a strong economy and a strategically important location between Central and South America. Thus, having a New Zealand presence on the ground will help New Zealand businesses to be more effective in building links with businesses in Colombia," said McClay.

"Currently, Colombia is New Zealand's sixth largest export market in South America."

McClay is also holding bilateral meetings with new Colombian Trade Minister Maria Claudia Lacouture and Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Patti Londono Jamarillo.