India New Zealand Business Council Announces New Office Bearers and Welcomes Newly Elected Board Members Auckland, Thursday, 14 August 2025

India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) welcomed three newly elected members to its Board at its AGM earlier this week and confirmed Edwin Paul as the new Chair, Tony Martin in the newly-created role of Deputy Chair and Jonathan Manuel continued as Treasurer. 

The newly elected Board members are Prevar CEO and former Regional Trade Commissioner Tony Martin, University of Auckland senior lecturer and Director of the NZ Asia Institute Dr Antje Fiedler and BNZ senior partner Sumant Khedkar.  

As the newly elected Chair, Mr Paul’s vision is to position INZBC as the leading catalyst for India–New Zealand trade and innovation.  

“With 2026 set to become one of the most significant years in the relationship between the two nations, now is the time for the Council to step up and be the bridge between New Zealand and India. We have a strong Board with a great combination of talent, experience and diversity. With its support and guidance, we can build these opportunities into value for members and for both nations.” 

“The Board would like to thank and acknowledge outgoing Chair Bharat Chawla for his valuable service over the past year and also thank outgoing members, Earl Rattray and Jay Changlani, for their contributions to the council and its members,” says Mr Paul. 

The appointments come at a pivotal time for India–New Zealand relations, with opportunities for deeper collaboration across trade, culture, education, and innovation.  

Mr Khedkar noted that the “New Zealand–India relationship is set to grow stronger, driven by trade, cultural exchange, and empowered communities, fostering mutual respect, deeper understanding, and shared prosperity for both nations in the years ahead.”   

Mr Martin reflected on the importance of this moment, observing that “There has never been a more important time for India and New Zealand ties to be strengthened and enhanced, as the two countries work together to progress their economic, cultural, sporting, and educational connections that span decades but still have significant room for growth.” 

Dr Fiedler highlighted the role of the Indian diaspora, noting that “It already plays an important part in New Zealand’s innovation and growth, and that closer government-to-government ties can strengthen and extend this impact.”  

Outgoing Chair Bharat Chawla congratulated Edwin Paul on his election, calling him an exceptional leader with a long-standing connection to INZBC. He expressed confidence that Edwin would strengthen the relationship between India and New Zealand, excel in his new role, and continue to advance the organisation’s mission. 

About the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) The India New Zealand Business Council is the premier trade advocacy organisation for India–New Zealand business relations. Established in 1988, INZBC works with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote trade, investment, and strategic collaboration between the two countries. With over 200 members representing a broad cross-section of goods and services industries, INZBC plays a vital role in shaping the future of bilateral economic engagement. 

Media Contact: 

Sunil Kaushal, General Manager 

India New Zealand Business Council 

Email: gm@inzbc.org 

Phone 0212804189