This section provides information, resources and guidance on our functions which support consumers, employment, business and economic development.

Intellectual property refers to new or original innovations and creations of the mind. This section also covers copyright, trade marks, patents and other forms of intellectual property protection.

This section covers historic reform of legislation supporting the integrity of the corporate system.

We hold responsibilities relating to trade, including technical barriers to trade, import tariffs, trade remedies, competition, intellectual property and government procurement. This work makes it easier for New Zealand exporters to trade with other countries, maintains fair market competition, and ensures that products imported into New Zealand are safe.

New Zealand’s conformance system plays an important role in our communities and economy.

The Government has taken legislation through Parliament to change New Zealand’s law relating to the misuse of market power (section 36 of the Commerce Act), along with other minor changes to the treatment of intellectual property rights and covenants in the Commerce Act.

On Friday 14 May 2021, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs announced the 6 KiwiSaver providers who will offer default fund services from 1 December 2021.

The targeted review of the Commerce Act 1986 began in November 2015 with the release of an Issues Paper. Submissions on the Issues Paper closed on 9 February 2016 and cross-submissions closed on 21 July 2016.

On 17 February 2017 the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs released an exposure draft of the Financial Services Amendment Bill for a 6-week public consultation period. We are also seeking feedback on a proposal for existing industry participants to transition to the new regime.

Big businesses commit to help small businesses get digital