13 Aug 2026
2 months ago
660 views
Farmers and rural businesses in New Zealand are gaining faster access to essential crop protection products due to significant improvements in the Environmental Protection Authority's (EPA) hazardous substances assessment processes, which have halved application wait times since July 2024. The EPA completed a record number of assessments in 2025/26 and reduced the backlog by over a third, reflecting the Government's commitment to efficient regulatory processing while maintaining strong environmental safeguards. Additionally, reforms to the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act are underway to further streamline application procedures and support innovation, with the Primary Production Select Committee expected to report on the amendments in September.
14 May 2026
5 months ago
1179 views
The Government is introducing the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Amendment Bill to streamline access to new agricultural chemicals and veterinary medicines by reducing regulatory complexity and focusing on real risks. The Bill enables reliance on trusted overseas assessments, expedites approval for low-risk products, and works alongside the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Amendment Bill to create a more adaptive, internationally aligned regulatory framework. These changes aim to enhance safety, trade competitiveness, transparency, and timely decision-making, with the Bill expected to complete parliamentary readings by late 2026.
10 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1346 views
New Zealand and Singapore have strengthened their trade relationship through the launch of a Strategic Food Partnership and the Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies, announced by Minister Todd McClay. The Strategic Food Partnership aims to enhance agrifood trade, facilitate the movement of high-quality food, and promote investment and innovation in the primary and food production sectors. The Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies ensures the continuous flow of goods like food and fuel during crises, with a crisis-response arrangement to prevent export curbs and support supply chain resilience.