Maori are leading the way in strategic areas of indigenous economic development according to Richard Jones, the CEO of Poutama Business Trust. In this article, he explains what lessons the global indigenous business community can learn from Maori.
As the head of Poutama Business Trust, Richard Jones has met with many indigenous business leaders from North America, Australia and Asia-Pacific. After travelling around the world he says he has found that many indigenous peoples are looking to Maori for economic leadership.
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“The fisheries settlement process in particular has been held up as a model by other indigenous nations says Richard who believes Maori can offer other excellent examples. “There are some indigenous nations who may be rich in resources such as minerals, but are passive participants in their wealth extraction. Instead of participating in the mining of their minerals, they are only receiving a royalty. The difference with Maori is that we are integrated into the economy and active participants in the management and added value of our resources.”
“Supporting Maori businesses to add value is one of the major initiatives Poutama focuses on and Richard Jones cannot emphasise enough the comparative advantage Maori and other indigenous cultures have over their competition. “There’s a huge consumer base out there who are looking for something natural, unique and genuine. And as long as you can maintain your cultural values then you have points of difference which you can market.” Wakatu Incorporation’s Tohu brand is cited by Richard as a good case study of a Maori company who have capitalised on their distinct cultural identity out in the market place, and are amongst the forerunners in adding value to their products.”
