The India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) has appointed long-time member and seasoned business leader Edwin Paul as its new Chair, marking a fresh chapter in strengthening ties between the two nations.
In a closely contested election, the Council also welcomed three new members to its Board. Tony Martin, Chief Executive of Prevar; Dr Antje Fiedler, University of Auckland senior lecturer and Director of the NZ Asia Institute; and Sumant Khedkar, BNZ senior partner, emerged victorious from a field of eight candidates competing for three positions. Other contenders, including Pawan Arora, Director at Arora Group of Companies (AGC); Mohan Ebenezer from Expeditors International NZ Limited; Pauras Rege, Director and Co-founder of Tiaki Capital; Michael Henstock, Market Growth and Engagement Specialist at Orbit Consulting; and Chandan Ohri from Duco Consultancy, fell short. Following the election, INZBC confirmed its office bearers for 2025/26, with Tony Martin stepping in as Deputy Chair and Jonathan Manuel continuing as Treasurer.
Originally from Madras (now Chennai), Paul comes from Dravidian roots with a mixed Indian heritage, bringing a deeply bicultural perspective to his role. A successful entrepreneur with established businesses in both India and New Zealand, he blends professional expertise with a profound appreciation of the values, people, and potential of both countries.
“The strength of this Board lies in its diversity, talent, and experience,” said Edwin Paul, outlining his vision to position INZBC as a leading catalyst for India–New Zealand trade and innovation. He emphasised a focus on emerging sectors such as clean energy and creative industries, adding that the team could turn upcoming milestones into lasting opportunities for members and for both nations.
Paul has been actively involved with INZBC for over 15 years, now serving his third term on the board. His leadership style is described as inclusive, consultative, and outcome-focused, driven by a strong belief in structured dialogue and digital innovation. A passionate AI evangelist, he also follows the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai — the pursuit of purposeful living — which informs his decision-making and leadership approach.
As Chair, Edwin Paul has outlined a clear and ambitious agenda for the Council, including:
The appointments come at a pivotal time, with 2026 expected to be a landmark year for the bilateral relationship. Sumant Khedkar noted that ties between New Zealand and India are set to grow stronger through trade, cultural exchange, and empowered communities, fostering mutual respect and shared prosperity. Tony Martin highlighted the significance of this moment, pointing to opportunities to enhance economic, cultural, sporting, and educational connections between the two countries. Antje Fiedler stressed the role of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand’s innovation and growth, noting that closer government-to-government ties could amplify this impact.
Established in 1988, INZBC is the premier trade advocacy organisation for India–New Zealand business relations. With over 200 members across goods and services sectors, it works with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote trade, investment, and strategic collaboration between the two countries.