New Zealand’s dairy industry, contributing roughly NZ$26 billion in exports (to April 2023), is increasingly burdened by tariffs and non-tariff barriers (NTBs) that remain high across global markets. A report commissioned by DairyNZ and the Dairy Companies Association (DCANZ) highlighted that 87% of global dairy markets enforce tariffs ≥10%, resulting in NZ exporters incurring NZ$1.5 billion in tariffs and NZ$7.8 billion in NTB costs annually
High costs persist despite gains under FTAs like NZ–EU and NZ–UK, with export channels still facing burdensome paperwork, certification demands, and infrastructure inefficiencies—especially at Port Tauranga and domestic transport networks . DCANZ’s Kimberly Crewther emphasized that reducing trade barriers and enhancing logistics are critical next steps to support export growth and regional economic resilience.
Industry Insight
As global trade tightens, New Zealand’s dairy competitiveness hinges on addressing NTBs and infrastructure gaps. Strategic investment in tariff reduction and transport efficiency could unlock billions in export value and expand access to premium markets.
Source : Dairynews7x7 June 12th 2025 Read full article here