About Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation (ABEF)
The Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation (ABEF) is a New Zealand–based organisation established on 29 January 2015 by Kiwi Indian entrepreneur Ram Kumar Bhargava and Māori entrepreneur Tiopira Rauna. The Foundation was created with the objective of strengthening bilateral relations and promoting meaningful collaboration between India and New Zealand.
ABEF works to facilitate engagement across a broad range of priority sectors, including trade and investment, information and communication technology (ICT), infrastructure, science and technology, health, education, culture, and tourism. Through structured initiatives and stakeholder engagement, the Foundation supports cooperation that delivers mutual economic, social, and cultural benefits.
Grounded in both Māori and Indian values, ABEF is committed to fostering respectful partnerships, encouraging innovation, and identifying new avenues for cooperation between these two dynamic and forward-looking nations.
WHAT WE DO
The Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation (ABEF) is a not-for-profit platform dedicated to advancing strong, enduring, and mutually beneficial relations between India and New Zealand.
The Foundation works to identify, facilitate, and promote strategic cooperation across priority sectors, including trade and investment, information and communication technology, infrastructure, science and technology, health, education, culture, tourism, and other areas of shared economic and developmental interest.
Through structured engagement and collaborative initiatives, ABEF provides support services tailored to the requirements of businesses, institutions, and stakeholders, with the objective of fostering sustainable growth, innovation, and long-term partnerships. The Foundation welcomes engagement from all interested parties seeking to explore and strengthen opportunities within the India–New Zealand bilateral framework.
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation (ABEF) is to strengthen economic and cultural ties between New Zealand and India by fostering collaboration, facilitating engagement, and supporting sustainable growth and shared prosperity for businesses and communities in both countries.
WHY CHOOSE US
Expertise
ABEF brings together a team of experienced professionals with a strong understanding of international trade frameworks and the New Zealand–India business landscape. Our expertise enables us to navigate cross-border opportunities with insight, accuracy, and strategic foresight.
Network & Connectivity
The Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation maintains a well-established network of industry leaders, institutions, and stakeholders across both countries. This extensive connectivity creates meaningful opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and market access.
PERSONAL CONSULTATION
Explore the possibilities of economic growth with AOTEAROA BHARAT ECONOMIC FOUNDATION.
Contact us today to embark on a journey of successful international trade and partnership development.
Results-Oriented Approach
Our success is measured by tangible outcomes and real economic impact. ABEF focuses on delivering practical results that support business growth, strengthen bilateral trade, and contribute to long-term prosperity in both New Zealand and India.
Our Core Values
Mātauranga (Education & Knowledge)
We value learning, wisdom, and the sharing of knowledge as the foundation for informed decision-making, innovation, and sustainable development.
Kotahitanga (Unity of Purpose)
We are guided by a shared vision and collective responsibility, working together towards common goals that benefit both New Zealand and India.
Whanaungatanga (Collaboration & Relationships)
We prioritise strong relationships built on trust, mutual respect, and cooperation, recognising that meaningful partnerships drive lasting success.
Rangatiratanga (Leadership & Integrity)
We uphold principled leadership, accountability, and ethical conduct in all our engagements, fostering confidence and long-term credibility.
Wairuatanga (Spiritual Awareness & Respect)
We honour the spiritual and cultural dimensions of human connection, recognising values, traditions, and purpose beyond economic outcomes.
Mana Whenua (Responsibility to the Land and the People)
We respect the rights, responsibilities, and guardianship of communities and land, acknowledging the importance of place, heritage, and people.
Kaitiakitanga (Active Stewardship & Sustainability)
We are committed to responsible stewardship of natural, cultural, and economic resources, ensuring sustainability for present and future generations.