National pledges seven trade deals in five years if elected

National's trade spokesperson Todd McClay announced from the Port of Auckland that a National government would prioritise free trade agreements with Brazil, Switzerland, Argentina, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uruguay, and the European Free Trade Association within five years. The commitment spans four continents and ranges from emerging markets to established trading partners. Completing single FTAs typically takes years; the target pace would require simultaneous negotiating tracks and expanded MFAT capacity.