Incorporated on 23 November 2005, with the primary objective to promote the establishment of closer economic cooperation between New Zealand and Europe, with 22 European countries initially represented. The NZEBC provides a forum and liaison structure for the co-ordination of activities of various trade organisations, chambers of commerce, delegations, diplomatic missions and consular representatives. The NZEBC acts as an umbrella organisation that can bring together the many and varied interests of those involved in the major New Zealand - Europe bi-lateral trade.