A New Zealand businessman is defending his role in setting up a company apparently involved in facilitating illegal arms trading.
SP Trading leased an aircraft which was intercepted by Thai police last month, en route from North Korea to Iran, with 35 tonnes of weapons on board.
It is one of hundreds of shell companies set up by GT Group Limited, which is based in Vanuatu and incorporates New Zealand companies for international clients' tax reduction purposes.
The marketing director of GT Group, Ian Taylor, says the company contacted the authorities following the seizure and has no involvement in illegal activities.
While investigations continue, Commerce Minister Simon Power is to meet with officials on Monday to discuss the registration of companies with overseas directors.
