Collaborative Efforts Lead to the Reopening of Export Markets for New Zealand Tomatoes
New Zealand’s tomato producers are now able to resume fresh tomato exports to Australia, following a suspension that began in April 2021. This market reopening, effective from June 21, 2024, marks a significant milestone for New Zealand’s tomato industry, reflecting successful collaboration between industry stakeholders and government agencies.
A Milestone Achievement for New Zealand’s Tomato Industry
The suspension of tomato exports from New Zealand to Australia was implemented in April 2021 due to the detection of the Pepino Mosaic Virus (PepMV) in a commercial greenhouse. This action was necessary to safeguard Australian agriculture from potential biosecurity risks. Over the past two years, TomatoesNZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have worked diligently to address these concerns and re-establish the export pathway.
Dinah Cohen, General Manager of TomatoesNZ, reflected on the extensive efforts involved: “TomatoesNZ has worked with the Ministry for Primary Industries for nearly two years to re-open the Australian market.” This collaboration led to the development of a new code of practice that meets the stringent requirements set by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF).
New Code of Practice Ensures High Standards for Tomato Exports
The newly established code of practice addresses biosecurity measures and production standards to ensure that New Zealand tomatoes meet Australia’s import requirements. This comprehensive approach has reassured Australian authorities of the safety and quality of the products being exported.
Shane Olsen, MPI’s Plant Exports Manager, noted the importance of the code in the export resumption: “The new code of practice has provided the necessary assurances to DAFF, facilitating the resumption of tomato exports.” The code includes rigorous guidelines for pest management, greenhouse sanitation, and virus monitoring, ensuring that New Zealand’s tomatoes are free from PepMV and other potential threats.
Economic Impact of the Resumption
Prior to the suspension, New Zealand’s tomato exports to Australia were a substantial part of the industry’s economic landscape. In 2020, over 600,000 kg of fresh tomatoes were exported to Australia, contributing approximately $2 million annually to the New Zealand tomato sector. The resumption of exports aligns with the 2024/25 export season, which runs from November to March, offering a renewed opportunity for New Zealand tomato producers to tap into this significant market.
Dinah Cohen emphasized the economic importance of this market: “Australia was a key export destination for New Zealand tomatoes, and resuming access to this market is vital for our industry.” The reopening is expected to foster increased trade opportunities and economic growth for New Zealand’s tomato producers.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for New Zealand Tomato Exports
With the resumption of tomato exports, New Zealand producers are poised to meet the demands of the Australian market once again. The new code of practice and the collaborative efforts of TomatoesNZ and MPI set a positive precedent for future international trade initiatives.
Industry professionals and stakeholders can look forward to a successful 2024/25 export season, bolstered by renewed market access and the establishment of robust biosecurity measures.
For more information on the new code of practice and upcoming export opportunities, industry professionals are encouraged to visit the official TomatoesNZ and MPI websites.
