The Productivity Commission was asked by the Government to build a better understanding of the services sector and find ways to lift its productivity. The final report follows an issues paper and two interim reports. The Commission considered 56 submissions, met with over 60 interested parties, and surveyed 1 526 businesses.
The inquiry examined in depth two topics critical to lifting productivity: stimulating competition and adopting information and communications technology (ICT).
Purpose
The purpose of the inquiry is two-fold: to provide an overview of the role of services in the New Zealand economy and to provide policy options to lift productivity in the services sector.