Today’s announcement from the government to reduce regulatory red tape for exporters means competing on the world stage will soon be easier for some Kiwi businesses. By the end of the month, food exporters will no longer need to apply for exemptions from New Zealand rules if their products already meet the importing country’s requirements.

ExportNZ Executive Director Joshua Tan says the change reflects long-standing recommendations made by exporters. “This is a sensible, long-awaited fix that ExportNZ and our members have been calling for. Simplifying labelling and composition exemptions has been on the agenda for some time, and we’re pleased to see it addressed.”

Tan says the new system will simplify the process of getting products to market. “Currently, exporters have to navigate a costly, time-consuming process to secure approvals on a product-by-product basis. The new approach gives businesses more certainty, cuts compliance costs, and reduces delays. It’s a change that will make a real difference to Kiwi exporters competing on the global stage.

“ExportNZ looks forward to working with officials on any further changes to the export process that make it simpler for New Zealand-owned businesses to enter other markets.”

For more information:
Cal Roberts
ExportNZ
Tel: +64 (0) 22 653 8967
Email: [email protected]
www.exportnz.org.nz




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Publication date:

Thu 4 Sep 2025