Andrew Bayly Heads to Singapore for International Scam Prevention Meetings

Mr. Bayly will join a delegation led by the Australian Minister for Financial Services and the Australian Banking Association.

Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Andrew Bayly, is traveling to Singapore today to participate in meetings focused on preventing scams and fraud.

“Scams are a growing international problem, and New Zealand is not immune. Organized criminal networks operate across borders, and we need to collaborate with our Asia-Pacific partners to address this complex and rapidly evolving issue,” said Mr. Bayly.

Mr. Bayly will join a delegation led by the Australian Minister for Financial Services and the Australian Banking Association. The delegation is set to meet with Singapore’s Minister for Home Affairs and local industry leaders to discuss international trends, anti-scam technology, and regulatory strategies for combating scams.

“I understand how concerning it is for New Zealanders who have worked hard to save, to think they could become victims of sophisticated cyber criminals. I have already urged New Zealand’s banks to take stronger action and expect an update on their progress by September.

“This trip will be a valuable opportunity to learn from Singapore and Australia’s approaches to scam monitoring and enforcement. Together, we will seek opportunities for industry and government collaboration to fight scams.

“Safe financial institutions are essential to a prosperous, modern economy. The Government takes scam prevention seriously, and I look forward to using this trip to inform our strategies for improving security and resilience at home.”

During his visit, Mr. Bayly will also engage in various other activities related to his Commerce and Consumer Affairs, as well as Small Business and Manufacturing portfolios. This includes a visit to the Advanced Remanufacturing Technology Centre and a meeting with the Singapore Competition and Consumer Commission.

Mr. Bayly is scheduled to return to New Zealand on June 13.