- PDF Version (2.2M) - Print Friendly - Help

Food Focus August 2007

Dairy export markets open up

A new export policy framework could provide innovative opportunities for dairy exporters. Amendments to the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act will see a reallocation of previously exclusive export rights to some of New Zealand’s regulated dairy markets.

“The rights to these markets are due to expire at different times between now and December 2010. As a result of the proposed changes a wider group of dairy processors will be able to export to these markets,” says Carol Barnao, NZFSA’s Director (Export Standards).

The proposed amendments will remove export restrictions on cheese to Japan, butter to Canada and parts of the cheese markets to the US. They will also allow the allocation of licences to multiple exporters for:

• milk powder to the Dominican Republic

• cheddar cheese and cheese for processing, and butter to the EU

• parts of the cheese markets to the US

• prepared edible fat to Japan.

Those dairy exporters registered under the Animal Products Act and collecting a minimum of 0.1% of milk solids will be eligible to apply to receive an allocation of export licences. Any registered exporter will be able to buy them off other holders and/or access some markets that were previously restricted.

“NZFSA will manage certification and enforcement requirements, subject to some legislative and E-cert system changes. Exporters will be advised in detail about the new allocation and compliance system in the coming months so they can submit milk collection data to prove their eligibility,” says Carol.