EU-NZ FTA ratification boost for New Zealand's horticulture sector

The New Zealand-European Union Free Trade Agreement will deliver a major boost to the horticulture sector when it comes into force later this year.

Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Nadine Tunley says onion and kiwifruit growers stand to benefit from tariff savings.

“Based on last year’s export figures, around $60 million in tariffs per year will be slashed from day one, including nearly $52 million on kiwifruit alone.

“The FTA will level the playing field by ensuring New Zealand’s horticulture exports are more competitive on the shelf, which is great news for our growers and regional communities across the country.

“The agreement will also strengthen the sector’s resilience and build prosperity at a time of significant supply chain volatility.”

New Zealand kiwifruit and onion exporters have been facing EU tariffs of between 8.8 and 9.6 per cent. Other New Zealand fresh, frozen and processed horticulture products face even higher EU tariffs – in some cases, up to 33 per cent.

New Zealand horticulture’s overall export earnings (FOB) from EU trade reached almost $614 million in the year ending November 2023.

“The horticulture sector will be looking for further progress on the removal of the EU’s agricultural subsidies in the future, says Ms Tunley.