"Joint statement: Private sector unites in support of laws to combat modern slavery in Aotearoa New Zealand and global supply chains", 29 January 2026

The 30 signatories represent institutional investors and New Zealand businesses accounting for more than NZD 264 billion.

Aotearoa New Zealand has built a strong international reputation as a green, sustainable, and ethically minded nation. With Modern Slavery Bills now proposed by both the National and Labour party (the Bills), we stand at a tipping point to introduce legislation aimed at driving transparent and ethical supply chains. This is critical to protect vulnerable workers but also to maintain competitiveness and trust in our exports and brand.

Forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of modern slavery are exploitative practices that harm people and communities in Aotearoa New Zealand and worldwide.

Globally, a number of countries, including some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s key trade partners, have introduced laws requiring business to identify, address and report on modern slavery or broader human rights risks…

Modern slavery legislation is a notable gap in our corporate regulatory landscape. Urgent action is required to address this concern, protect our reputation, and better manage the risks modern slavery creates for both people and businesses. As a business community, we welcome the changes envisaged by the Bills and recognise the current bipartisan appetite to improve corporate practices.

1) Aotearoa New Zealand is increasingly out of alignment with its international peers

Global regulatory focus on modern slavery has intensified in recent years. Key trading partners including the UK, Canada and Australia already have modern slavery laws in place while several others have adopted or are considering forced labour import bans. Aotearoa New Zealand must align with these global standards and expectations to maintain market access.

2) Modern slavery erodes long term business value

… As responsible businesses, we are committed to respecting human rights and mitigating risks in our operations and supply chains. Clear legislation also enables investors to assess and manage risk more effectively, strengthening business credibility and access to capital. Appropriate legislation provides the clarity and consistency needed to support this work, creating a level playing field to ensure all businesses are required to meet these standards.

3) The Bills are an appropriately balanced next step for Aotearoa New Zealand

Effective management of modern slavery and associated exploitative labour practices requires commitment from both the public and private sectors. The Bills provide a comprehensive, balanced and pragmatic approach, strengthening Aotearoa New Zealand’s legislative framework to ensure the robust response these issues require whilst providing compatibility with existing regimes. It allows local companies to meet international expectations while remaining relevant to our domestic context.

The Bills both require businesses to report annually on modern slavery risks, and will provide a consistent standard, reduce compliance uncertainty, and protect companies committed to ethical practices from being undercut…