Iowa forms partnership with New Zealand

Iowa and New Zealand have signed an agreement that will expand business and academic exchanges — and opportunities — between the state and country, Gov. Tom Vilsack said Tuesday.

Vilsack, who attended the Biotechnology Industry Organization conference in Philadelphia, said the agreement will encourage academic exchanges between New Zealand and Iowa, particularly in plant, animal and human sciences.

Iowa is a leader in developing bio-based energy, such as ethanol and biodiesel, and has academic strengths in developing pharmaceuticals, chemicals and other biotech products.

In the next year, Vilsack said Iowa could see investment from New Zealand companies interested in establishing a U.S. presence.

The agreement is a result of discussions and trips between Iowa and New Zealand officials that began two years ago. Vilsack said New Zealand is a good partner for Iowa because of shared "core competencies," particularly in agriculture.

By DONNELLE ELLER
REGISTER STAFF WRITER

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