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NZ Reserve Bank to improve money transfers to the Pacific

Wednesday 3 November 2021 | Written by RNZ | Published in New Zealand, Regional

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NZ Reserve Bank to improve money transfers to the Pacific
Photo: 123RF

New Zealand's central bank aims to make money transfers to the Pacific islands easier to access and less expensive.

The Reserve Bank said it is working on improving the financial inclusion of Pacific nations by making remittances to the islands more accessible and cost-effective.

The central bank's latest Financial Stability Report said the changes will improve the region's financial stability and prosperity, and assist with its recovery and growth.

Difficult access to banking services is one of the reasons why there has been a rise in the use of cryptocurrencies across the Pacific, which are largely unregulated, with trading prohibited in some nations.

Cost is another factor, and a recent study indicated New Zealand's recognised seasonal employer workers paid about $400 a season in remittance transaction fees.

The RBNZ said it was already working with Pacific Island central banks and international organisations to make remittances to the Pacific more accessible, safe and cost-effective.

Wider adoption of digital technology was recently highlighted as an increasing path to make financial services more evenly available, in the annual meeting of financial leaders from APEC nations(Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation).