Zespri welcomes significant step in NZ-EU Free Trade Agreement

Media Statement

24 Nov 2023

Zespri has welcomed the European Parliament’s ratification of the New Zealand-European Union Free Trade Agreement, and encouraged the incoming government to pass the deal as quickly as possible to support local exporters.

The European Parliament has voted comprehensively in favour of the agreement which now requires ratification by the New Zealand Parliament before coming into force.

Among other benefits the deal includes the removal of an 8.8% tariff on New Zealand kiwifruit exports to the EU upon entry once in force.

Zespri Head of Global Public Affairs Michael Fox says the deal will bring significant benefits to business, consumers and communities in New Zealand and the EU.

“Zespri paid around $47m in tariffs on sales into the EU last season. The removal of the tariff will support our efforts to grow our exports to Europe, supplying European consumers with more of the world’s best kiwifruit and returning more value back to our growers. This is particularly welcome as the industry resets after two challenging seasons and as our exports continue grow.”

“On behalf of the industry I’d like to acknowledge the hard work of all those who have been part of making this deal happen and look forward to seeing our new government work at pace to adopt this legislation and the NZ-EU FTA coming into effect.”