Todd McClay: The Salesman of Sovereignty
From Forests to Foreign Deals – Exporting Power, Erasing Accountability
Minister for Trade and Investment · Defender of Deregulation · Advocate for Investor Overreach
Current Portfolios
- Minister of Agriculture
- Minister of Forestry
- Minister for Trade and Investment
- Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs
Todd McClay holds multiple portfolios in the Luxon government — including Trade, Agriculture, and Forestry. Beneath his diplomatic exterior lies a consistent agenda: prioritise investor access over public scrutiny, and shield foreign capital from democratic accountability.
His latest legislation — the United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (UAE CEPA) Bill — quietly rewrites the rules of foreign investment in New Zealand.
Section 1: UAE CEPA — Investor Privilege, No Questions Asked
McClay’s UAE CEPA Bill introduces a new category of “Type 5 investor” — allowing UAE-linked individuals and enterprises to buy New Zealand assets worth up to NZD $200 million without triggering review under the Overseas Investment Act.
- No public interest test
- No Treaty of Waitangi consideration
- No beneficial ownership transparency
The UAE is not a democratic partner. It lacks press freedom, judicial independence, and political transparency. Yet McClay grants its investors access on par with trusted allies — bypassing scrutiny and accountability.
“This isn’t trade reform — it’s deregulation disguised as diplomacy. It protects capital, not people.” – Ukes Baha
Section 2: A Pattern of Prejudice — “You’re Not in Mexico Now”
In July 2024, McClay made a xenophobic remark in Parliament directed at Green MP Ricardo Menéndez March: “You’re not in Mexico now. We don’t do things like that here.” The comment was confirmed by multiple MPs. McClay later offered a brief withdrawal — but no apology or explanation.
Menéndez March, born in Mexico, highlighted that the remark was not only personal — but harmful to migrant communities across Aotearoa. Prime Minister Luxon called it “inappropriate” but declined further comment.
McClay represents New Zealand abroad. Yet his attitude in Parliament reveals whose voices he respects — and whose presence he diminishes.
“This wasn’t just a comment. It was a code — a reminder of who belongs, and who doesn’t.” – Ukes Baha
Section 3: Deregulation, Disrespect, and the Disappearing Public
McClay’s legislative legacy aligns with a wider government agenda: protect investor interests, shrink public oversight, and erode constitutional integrity. His trade priorities mirror those of corporate lobbies — not communities, not Treaty partners, not everyday New Zealanders.
Whether cutting deals or making coded comments, McClay represents a political current where private capital speaks louder than public good.
What You Can Do
- Read the opposition to the UAE CEPA Bill — and share it.
- Track the pattern. Expose the structure. Challenge the silence.
- Share this exposé on Todd McClay — and make sure privilege does not go unchecked.
Every case documented strengthens public memory—and demands accountability.
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