A message from the founders and trustees of ABEF
Ram Kumar Bhargava and Tiopira Rauna
Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation was started in 2015 in Wellington by Ram Kumar Bhargava and Tiopira Rauna. ABEF was set up to actively seek to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen engagement between India and New Zealand in key sectors - Trade, ICT, infrastructure, science & technology, health, academic, cultural, tourism and other potential areas for cooperation between both countries.
Message from the CEO
Kush Bhargava
CEO, Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation (ABEF)
The signing of the India New Zealand Free Trade Agreement marks a historic moment one that opens a new chapter of trust, opportunity, and shared prosperity between our two nations.
At Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation, we take pride in being a truly bridge-building organisation founded by Māori and Kiwi-Indian leadership, with a clear focus on empowering local New Zealand businesses alongside Indian and Māori enterprises.
ABEF has been honoured to lead multiple successful business delegations to India and to be invited by the Government of India to support deeper trade, innovation, and people-to-people connections.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure the benefits of this partnership reach grassroots businesses, indigenous enterprises, and future generations creating inclusive, ethical, and sustainable growth for Aotearoa and Bharat alike.
With respect and commitment,
Kush Bhargava
Ram Kumar Bhargava
Ram Kumar Bhargava is a distinguished Kiwi–Indian entrepreneur and global business leader with over 50 years of experience in international business and leadership. He has worked in senior roles with Fortune 500 companies, managing complex global operations and large-scale procurement portfolios. He is widely recognised for introducing international benchmark procurement systems in India, strengthening governance and efficiency. His expertise continues to guide ABEF’s mission of ethical and sustainable cross-border collaboration.
Co-Founder | International Business & Governance Leader
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50+ years of experience in business, leadership, and global operations
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Fortune 500 corporate experience
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Managed multi-billion-dollar global procurement portfolios
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Pioneer in international benchmark procurement systems in India
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Expertise in cross-border trade, governance, and strategic partnerships
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Worked with Indian and New Zealand Companies
Tiopira Rauna
Tiopira Rauna is a prominent figure in New Zealand, known for his leadership roles in Māori business and cultural initiatives, particularly as Chairman of Rauru Tetere Inc. and Awapuni B2B Ahu Whenua Trust, and co-founding the Aotearoa Bharat Economic Foundation (ABEF) to foster India-Māori economic ties. He is associated with Ngāti Kahungunu and other tribes, with deep roots in the Hawke's Bay region, and is involved in promoting bilateral trade and cultural exchange, linking Māori enterprises with India.
Co-Founder | Māori Business & Governance Leader
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Highly respected Māori business leader
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Deep knowledge of Māori culture, values, and ethical business practices
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Served on multiple boards and advisory roles
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Led international collaborations and strategic tie-ups
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Advisor to New Zealand and Indian companies on indigenous-led engagement
Management Team
OUR KEY FOCUS
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Matauranga (Education)
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Kotahitanga (Unity of purpose)
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Whanaungatanga (Collaboration)
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Rangatiratanga (Leadership)
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Wairuatanga (Spirituality)
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Mana whhenua (Responsibility to the Land & the people)
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Kaitiakitanga (Active Stewardship)
OUR
KEY
FOCUS
KEY OBJECTIVE
1.Trade Facilitation: We specialize in navigating the complexities of international trade, streamlining processes for businesses to thrive in the New Zealand-India economic landscape.
2.Partnership Development: AOTEAROA BHARAT ECONOMIC FOUNDATION actively promotes and nurtures strategic partnerships, connecting businesses and key stakeholders for impactful collaborations.
3.Market Insights: Our foundation provides invaluable market insights, enabling informed decision-making for businesses seeking to expand their presence in New Zealand or India.
4.Capacity Building: We are committed to empowering businesses with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the international market, contributing to the overall economic development of both nations.
