Survival of EU has to be in doubt

The UK’s shocking vote to leave the European Union is a mighty challenge for business and capital there. No wonder the ‘‘Leave’’ supporters were looking nervous as the result emerged. The phrase ‘‘be careful what you wish for’’ was never more apt. But what this seismic move means for the rest of us in the world is just as uncertain as Britain’s future.

Backing away from one of its biggest trading partners, should in theory, create a void in Britain which New Zealand exporters could exploit. The country is certainly going to need trade deals and one of the few half-positive points about the Leave campaign from a foreign point of view was the chance it proffered to other nations to search out new opportunities.

The Leave campaigners often talked about looking forward to reconnecting with Commonwealth countries on a more equal footing in regards to trade. And if European member states turn their backs in protest, then that could leave counties such as New Zealand, Australia, Canada, India and many others in a strong position when it comes to contracts, orders and even inward investment.

It also means, however, that New Zealand exporters to the European continent will have to look elsewhere for easy entry into the EU market.

Representatives from Germany recently told me that they were already trying to persuade companies to link up with them and use their country as a new portal into Europe.

The other uncertainty, of course, is the repercussions this result will have on the rest of the EU – will it survive now at all?

I fear very much for my birth country and hope its legendary resilience will sustain it in the months and years ahead. In this strange hour, I am going to take comfort in the success of many New Zealand businesses which have been battling geographical isolation for years. Unfortunately, the UK’s Leave vote is not one internet connectivity will be able to ameliorate.

I fear very much for my birth country.