46460 (2025). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

46460 (2025). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: Does the Minister agree with Simon Bridges, who said on 30 July 2025 regarding the surcharge ban, that "pressure should be applied" on the merchant fees charged by banks and payment providers?

Hon Scott Simpson: Yes. And this is what has happened already. The surcharge ban, announced by the government, follows the Commerce Commission's decision to further regulate interchange fees – the major component of the merchant service fee businesses are charged.