Local exporters told the Gisborne Herald it’s good news.
“It will grow and embed economic opportunities for Tairāwhiti exportersand create stronger supply chains with one of New Zealand’s most important trading partners in the Gulf region,” Kirkpatrick said.
“Having worked in and around the rural industry for many years, I know the importance of market access for our exporters.”
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE will eliminate duties on 98.5% of New Zealand’s exports immediately on entry into force, rising to 99% within three years. This will create new opportunities for New Zealand businesses in the dynamic UAE market.
“Our horticulture exports to the UAE currently sit at $44 million,” she said.
“The increased engagement and market opportunity this agreement will secure will see this number increase as UAE citizens seek our high quality, safe produce.
The UAE is one of New Zealand’s largest markets in the Middle East. Photo / 123rf
“This trade agreement was concluded in record time, in just over four months and is already being welcomed by our exporters across the region.
Kirkpatrick said the Government was fully committed to opening doors, embedding market access and “continuing to grow our presence as a supplier of safe, healthy food to the Gulf region”.
“This trade agreement is a really positive step towards achieving this and helping us double our exports by value in 10 years – which creates more jobs and opportunities in our region.”
The cost to produce a box of produce has increased hugely over the past six years, she said.
“Increasing trade opportunities and diversifying our markets will be welcomed news for our exporters.”
The UAE is a key export destination and hub in the Gulf region. The UAE deal has been seen as a stepping stone on the way to a far more significant agreement with the Gulf Co-operation Council of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.
In the year to June 2024, two-way trade was valued at $1.3 billion.
The UAE is one of New Zealand’s largest markets in the Middle East, and a top 20 export market overall.
New Zealand dairy exports to the UAE amounted to $718m, industrial products $237m, red meat $46m, horticulture $44m and tourism $31m.
“The agreement is a potential gateway into the wider Gulf region, and it’s fantastic news for farmers.
Federated Farmers leader Toby Williams.
“We know that the people of the Gulf states are highly affluent, and it’s a match made in heaven with our highly sought-after high-quality protein going in there,” Williams said.
“They are people who value quality – look at the vehicles they drive.
“Why not eat the best meat as well?”
First Fresh sales director Grant Walsh said the company exports persimmons to the UAE.
“This was the first year they have cracked that market and this trade agreement will assist us.
“It’s good news and we will be looking further afield in the Gulf countries.”
Kiwifruit growers spokesman Tim Tietjen said the industry did not send a lot of fruit to the UAE, “but every little counts”.
Barton Witters, from Kaiaponi Farms, said any sound opportunity that supported the region’s local produce being exported more efficiently was welcomed by Kaiaponi and its grower suppliers.
“The horticulture industry has had its challenges over the last few seasons - every bit counts.”
Labour trade spokesperson Damien O’Connor earlier said Labour “began exploratory trade talks on this agreement in September last year and [it] represented a deepening of bilateral relations between our two countries”.
