NZ Strengthens Organic Trade with China Through Upgraded Mutual Recognition Agreement

Boost for Kiwi organic growers as new trade arrangement aims to enhance exports and simplify certification processes.

New Zealand's organic product trade is set for a significant boost following the signing of an upgraded Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) with China, announced today by Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard. The new agreement is expected to open doors for increased exports and a more efficient certification process for New Zealand’s organic sector.

Signed in Central Otago by Minister Hoggard and Luo Wen, China's Minister for State Administration for Market Regulation, the upgraded MRA builds on the foundation of a 2022 agreement, which recognized the equivalence of both nations' organic production and certification systems.

“The upgraded Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for organic products will create valuable opportunities for our organic export sector,” said Hoggard. “It will allow New Zealand and China to jointly develop a work programme aimed at strengthening trade and boosting exports of organic bulk food service ingredients, while also streamlining the certification process.”

The organic trade between New Zealand and China has seen steady growth, with organic exports to China valued at over $81 million in 2021/22, according to industry data. The new MRA is expected to increase this figure significantly as it supports the Government’s ambitious target to double New Zealand’s overall export value within the next decade.

“By strengthening our organic exports to China, we are helping deliver on the Government’s goal of doubling the value of New Zealand’s exports in the next 10 years,” Hoggard emphasized. “This will not only boost returns for our organic growers but also provide much-needed economic value to our rural communities.”

The upgraded arrangement underscores the mutual trust and confidence that New Zealand and China have in each other's organic certification systems. By simplifying the certification process, it reduces barriers for New Zealand exporters, making it easier for organic products to reach Chinese markets.

“The MRA formalizes the shared commitment between our two nations to foster stronger trade relationships and support the growth of two-way organic trade. It also highlights the strength of our bilateral relationship with China, which remains one of New Zealand's most important trading partners,” Hoggard added.

With the new arrangement taking effect today, work on the joint programme between New Zealand and China is expected to begin before the end of the year. This initiative will focus on increasing the export of bulk organic food ingredients, further expanding market opportunities for New Zealand's organic sector.

The upgraded MRA is seen as a critical step in supporting Kiwi businesses, particularly in the organic industry. “The Government is dedicated to backing the success of New Zealand’s hardworking organic growers, manufacturers, and exporters,” Hoggard said. “This agreement lays the foundation for a long and prosperous future for New Zealand’s organic trade with China.”

As New Zealand continues to pursue its export growth targets, the upgraded MRA with China is poised to enhance the competitiveness of New Zealand's organic products in the global market, offering new avenues for growth and innovation.