Indigenous entrepreneurs’ export practices in Aotearoa New Zealand

ABSTRACT In recent years global trade has come under attack for a growth focus that has failed to stem inequality. At the same time, the number of Indigenous exporters is on the rise. The purpose of this study was to understand Indigenous export practices to gain insights for future trade policy development. We thematically analysed semi-structured interviews with Māori entrepreneurs who were experienced exporters. We also interviewed key informants. We found that Māori export practices are driven by a sense of identity, long-term inter-generational strategies, and an ability to balance tensions between cultural values and business demands. A framework of Māori export practices was developed that can be used to improve support services for exporters. We also found that Māori exporters view trade policy as a missed opportunity to incorporate Indigenous values and practices, such as long-term strategies, to inform global trade.