China COVID-19 testing update

Media Statement

27 Sep 2021

“We continue to work constructively with authorities following the test result.

This remains the only positive test on our kiwifruit, with all subsequent (and previous) COVID-19 tests proving negative.

We are continuing to supply our fruit into China as normal. All shipments into China have been processed in accordance with standard protocols, including testing for COVID-19 and disinfecting to provide additional certainty. This is the same process all previous imports to China have followed.

While we do expect some short-term impact, we are encouraged by the response from Chinese consumers who continue to show trust in us to provide only the highest-quality, safe Zespri Kiwifruit.

Our team in China is also working hard with our partners to ensure that trust is maintained, that our industry’s robust health and food safety processes are understood and that any impact on sales is minimised.

The New Zealand kiwifruit industry adheres to the highest industry safety standards and to date there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 in orchards or packhouses.”

Dan Mathieson
Zespri CEO.